Coyote sightings often increase this time of year when they are having pups and are more active around and protective of their den sites. They may set up dens near residential neighbourhoods.

The Town of Oakville is working with Coyote Watch Canada to provide education on how to avoid negative interactions with coyotes. Respect, compassion and education are common sense tools we can all use to nurture safe and healthy human-wildlife interactions.

If you know a coyote or a den is nearby, keep away and consider changing your route for a while until the coyote and pups have moved on. Keep dogs and small children away from the area.

If you are ever followed by a coyote or have one enter your yard, practice hazing to maintain the coyote’s fear of humans and let it know it is not welcome on your property. Always call 911 if you feel you are in immediate danger. You can get more tips and information at oakville.ca or coyotewatchcanada.com.