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The City of Burlington is reminding residents about steps they can take to manage coyote sightings and encounters this fall.
During dispersal season, coyotes tend to be more visible. This is because young coyotes are seeking out their own territories and looking for mates for breeding season.
Residents can prevent coyotes from visiting their properties by following some simple precautions:
- Store garbage, compost and pet food securely, in a place coyotes cannot access. Put garbage out the morning of pickup day instead of the night before.
- Install flashing lights, motion sensors and/or noise makers outside your property.
- Make sure spaces around/under decks and sheds are closed off.
Residents can request an audit of their yard for coyote attractants by Animal Control staff by contacting Service Burlington via email (city@burlington.ca) or phone (905-335-7777).
Hand and ground feeding wildlife on private or public property is prohibited by the City’s Lot Maintenance Bylaw (49-2022) and is subject to a fine. Backyard bird feeders are exempt under the City’s Lot Maintenance Bylaw (49-2022) but they must be well maintained to avoid fines.
Pet owners should keep dogs on leash at all times when walking in parks or green spaces. Cats should remain indoors.
The City is asking residents to report coyote sightings using the online form at burlington.ca/coyote.
Municipalities are responsible for taking appropriate actions to manage resident coyote sightings, encounters and attacks. The City has a Council approved Coyote Response Strategy in place that provides guidelines on preventing and managing conflicts with coyotes.
New This Year – Public Engagement Pop-Ups
Animal Services will be hosting educational pop-ups at various recreation centres and public libraries this fall. Residents can drop by to learn about coyote-proofing their property, and what to do if they see a coyote. Whistles used for hazing coyotes will also be available for free. Dates and details regarding these pop-ups are available at burlington.ca/coyote
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Kerry Davren, Director, Bylaw Compliance
“It’s important to understand how to respond during a coyote encounter and discourage coyotes from visiting your property. Reinforce coyotes’ natural fear of humans through hazing techniques. Learn more about coyote attractants and clear them from your property. This healthy coexistence is essential for both their safety and ours.”
Links and Resources
- Lot Maintenance Bylaw (49-2022)
- Animal Control Bylaw (60-2005)
- Learn more about living with coyotes at www.burlington.ca/coyote HYPERLINK "http://www.burlington.ca/coyote"
- Read the Council approved Coyote Response Strategy that includes an escalation process to deal with various levels of coyote interactions with residents and pets.
- Report a coyote sighting online at burlington.ca/servicerequest
- Watch a video about how to wildlife proof your property
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Media contact:
Emily Trotta
Communications Advisor
emily.trotta@burlington.ca
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