Coyotes have inhabited Ontario for more than 100 years, and have thrived in an expanding urban environment.
The green space at rare provides excellent habitat for coyotes, and while they are generally not a threat to human safety, sightings can be nevertheless unsettling for hikers, joggers, and dog walkers. The best thing to do is learn to understand and respect them, so we can continue to cohabitate this space.
Coyotes are mainly active at dusk, during the night, and at dawn, and are non-confrontational but curious animals. They play an important role as a predator eating mainly small rodents such as mice or rabbits, and will opportunistically eat birds, snakes, fish, plants, and accessible garbage left outside. Please remember that coyotes are wild animals, and you should never attempt to feed them! This includes leaving garbage behind which can unintentionally attract them.
Coyotes do not form packs like wolves, but can be seem in small family units or mated pairs. They are not considered to be major rabies carries, with less than 1% of diagnosed incidents in Ontario being traced back to coyotes. The MNR is not aware of any coyote attacks on people in Ontario. Precaution is always wise, and it is best to keep dogs close by on leashes and to teach children about animal safety.
If approached by a coyote, stay calm and wait until it moves on, or slowly make your way in an alternate direction. You can also make loud noises or use flashlights or sudden movements to scare it off. Never approach or try to touch a coyote.
Coyotes at rare are an important part of a healthy wildlife community!