NEWS RELEASE
CITY OF GUELPH
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The City of Guelph and Guelph Humane Society are reminding trail users to be vigilant following coyote sightings along the Niska Trail in Guelph’s west end.
In two separate incidents this month, a coyote has been stalking people and dogs. In the first incident, a coyote attacked a dog while the owner was hiking on the trail.
In the second incident, the Ontario Provincial Police reported that a coyote had attempted to attack a hiker walking two dogs. It is not known if the same coyote was involved in both incidents.
“Coyotes are highly adaptive and they’re learning to live closer to people so we are starting to see them more often,” says Adrienne McBride, executive director for the Guelph Humane Society.
Trail users are urged to keep their dogs on a leash to ensure the safety of their pet, clean up after their dogs as coyotes are attracted to feces, and avoid using the trail at dawn or dusk or after dark when coyotes are most active.
What to do if you encounter a coyote
Coyote sightings are commonplace. If you see a coyote, keep your distance and the animal will most likely avoid you.
If you encounter an aggressive coyote, there are several things you should know and do.
- Never approach or touch a coyote
- Back away from the coyote while remaining calm
- Do not turn your back on, or run from, a coyote
- Stand tall, wave your hands and make lots of noise
- Carry a flashlight at night to scare off coyotes
- Use hazing techniques such as popping an umbrella, throwing an object or shaking your keys
If a coyote poses an immediate threat or danger to public safety, call 911.
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