Connaught residents given alerts for coyote sightings

By Gillian Slade on July 6, 2018.

gslade@medicinehatnews.com  @MHNGillianSlade

Coyote alert notices are posted along Primrose Drive and around the Connaught Golf course.

The city says they were placed in the area after a number of homeowners reported sightings of the animals.

“We had some recorded sightings of coyotes in the area so we just want to take the necessary precautions to warn residents that there has been some coyote activity in the area,” said Dave Genio, superintendent of parks maintenance.

It does not necessarily mean there is more coyote activity than normal, just that coyotes sometimes go into different areas where they have not been before, he explained. Sometimes they are in a different area looking for a secondary food source.

“Technically right now we just want to make sure that people were aware that we have seen some coyote activity in the area …” said Genio.

There is no indication that there is a coyote den or family in that specific area of town. City staff are on the lookout for any activity that might indicate anything like that.

A spokesperson at Connaught Golf Club said they are not aware of golfers reporting any coyote activity.

The coyote alert states says “serious conflicts between people & coyotes are very rare because coyotes are naturally scared of humans.”

Coyotes have grey/brown/reddish coloured fur with bushy tails that are distinctively curled between their hind legs. They are similar in size to a medium size dog.

The alert has the following information if you encounter a coyote:

— Respond aggressively, trying to appear large and wave your arms above your head.

— Throw rocks, sticks and other objects, maintain eye contact and shout in a deep voice.

— Back away slowly, do not run, as this may encourage them to chase you.

People are reminded to keep dogs on a leash, and to not allow cats to roam freely outside. If you see a coyote, the notice advises, you should pick up your dog if it is a small one and back away slowly.

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