Feature Story
October 2 , 2006

Coyote safety information presented at Calgary city parks

To help raise public awareness about coyotes, Fish and Wildlife staff of Alberta Sustainable Resource Development presented coyote safety information to visitors at several Calgary parks on September 23 and 24.

An estimated 800 Calgary area residents took the opportunity to learn more about avoiding conflicts with coyotes.

The coyote education initiative had several positive outcomes. Residents learned more about keeping their pets and families safe from the animals, and provincial staff developed a greater understanding of public perceptions and concerns about coyotes.

Information trailers were located at Nose Hill Park and Fish Creek Provincial Park on September 23, and Edworthy and Stanley parks on September 24. Fish and Wildlife staff were on-hand from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. each day to answer questions and provide information.

As often as possible, they tried to speak with people walking their dogs, because coyotes are territorial and consider dogs to be a threat. Keeping pets on a leash at all times is the best way to ensure their safety.

People are strongly encouraged to try to make every human-coyote encounter unpleasant for the animal. Coyotes should be taught to keep their distance and not to feel comfortable around us.

  • Respond to their presence aggressively by making yourself appear large; wave your arms overhead, or shove long objects like a walking stick toward the coyote.
  • Throw rocks, sticks or other objects.
  • Carry a whistle and blow it to startle the animal.
  • Shout in a deep voice and maintain eye contact.
  • If the coyote continues to approach, back away slowly and move toward buildings or human activity.
  • Do not turn away or run. This will encourage the coyote to chase after you.

Coyotes are curious and adapt easily to new situations. Though they mostly feed on rabbits, mice and squirrels, they will also eat pet food, garbage, compost and bird feed. Coyotes become bolder toward people when backyards, playgrounds, or parks are seen as potential sources of food. Never feed coyotes.

Fish and Wildlife staff continue to work with municipalities to address public concerns. To reach the coyote information line in Calgary , dial (403) 297-7789; in Edmonton , call (780) 644-5744. For more information, visit: http://www.srd.gov.ab.ca/fw/coyotes .