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Writer's pictureKatharine McLarty

Coyote sightings

Updated: Feb 3, 2022


In 2021, the city received over 3,600 reports about coyote sightings in Toronto. Coyote sightings due to food being left outdoors are not uncommon in the city. ... Feeding coyotes, however, is against city bylaws and could result in a $365 fine. Coyotes do not typically pose a risk to humans but are a danger to pets.


To report a coyote sighting, call 416-338-PAWS (7297), or email animalservices@toronto.ca


If you are out and run into a coyote, Toronto Animal Services said residents should avoid turning their back, maintain eye contact, and back away. If you have a pet with you, pick it up off the ground or hold it on a short leash and move to a different area.

Toronto Animal Services says that the following actions will encourage coyotes to be afraid of humans:

  • Be Big: Make yourself appear as large, imposing or as threatening as you can. For example, raise your arms in the air or wave your jacket.

  • Be Loud: Making loud sounds or noises can help to scare a coyote away. For example, blow a whistle or air horn (if available), stomp your feet, clap your hands, snap open a large plastic or garbage bag, yell “go away coyote” to alert people nearby

  • Be Threatening: Display aggressive behaviour to scare the coyote away. For example, swing a walking stick or cane (if available), shine a flashlight on the coyote, throw a tennis ball or a small pebble or stick in the direction of the coyote to scare it away.

If you have questions about coyotes and their behaviour, Coyote Watch Canada has a handy FAQ you can find hereIf you are out and run into a coyote, Toronto Animal Services said residents should avoid turning their back, maintain eye contact, and back away. If you have a pet with you, pick it up off the ground or hold it on a short leash and move to a different area.

Toronto Animal Services says that the following actions will encourage coyotes to be afraid of humans:

  • Be Big: Make yourself appear as large, imposing or as threatening as you can. For example, raise your arms in the air or wave your jacket.

  • Be Loud: Making loud sounds or noises can help to scare a coyote away. For example, blow a whistle or air horn (if available), stomp your feet, clap your hands, snap open a large plastic or garbage bag, yell “go away coyote” to alert people nearby

  • Be Threatening: Display aggressive behaviour to scare the coyote away. For example, swing a walking stick or cane (if available), shine a flashlight on the coyote, throw a tennis ball or a small pebble or stick in the direction of the coyote to scare it away.

If you have questions about coyotes and their behaviour, Coyote Watch Canada has a handy FAQ you can find here.




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