County stresses coexistence with coyotes

Recent coyote encounters in Strathcona County are largely tied to denning season and protective parents guarding their young, according to local wildlife officials. Jocelyn Thrasher-Haug, Strathcona County’s environmental planning manager, said the increase in reported encounters this spring and summer is linked to natural coyote behaviour, particularly around dens and pups. “The behaviour we’re seeing [...]

Article content Recent coyote encounters in Strathcona County are largely tied to denning season and protective parents guarding their young, according to local wildlife officials. Jocelyn Thrasher-Haug, Strathcona County’s environmental planning manager, said the increase in reported encounters this spring and summer is linked to natural coyote behaviour, particularly around dens and pups. Recommended Videos “The behaviour we’re seeing is natural and what we expect,” Thrasher-Haug said.

While some residents may view coyotes as a threat, Thrasher-Haug said most conflicts involve dogs rather than people. Coyotes are often responding to what they perceive as a potential risk to their pups. The county’s approach focuses on coexistence through public education, patrols, hazing efforts, and temporary signage in areas where coyotes are exhibiting protective behaviour.

“We’re absolutely trying to approach this from a coexistence perspective because coyotes are on the landscape, urban and rural,” Thrasher-Haug said. “We’re not getting rid of them.” County staff routinely haze coyotes to reinforce their natural wariness of people.

However, that work becomes more challenging when pups are present and adults become more defensive. Officials say residents can help reduce conflicts by keeping dogs on leash, respecting warning signs, and avoiding areas where denning activity has been identified. If a coyote is encountered, Thrasher-Haug recommends remaining calm, creating distance, and making noise to encourage the animal to leave.

Air horns and dog-deterrent sprays can also provide peace of mind for some residents. She cautioned against carrying illegal pepper spray products and said bear spray should not be viewed as a response. The issue remains a polarizing one.

Some residents want coyotes removed from urban areas, while others enjoy seeing wildlife in local parks and natural areas. Thrasher-Haug said public safety remains the county’s top priority, but removing a coyote is considered a last resort. A coyote that can be successfully hazed and managed is often preferable to removing it, only to have another animal move into the same territory.

“We don’t need to be fearful, we just really need to be respectful,” she said. Strathcona County’s parks and green spaces support a wide variety of wildlife, including coyotes, owls, skunks, and other species. Officials say occasional conflicts are an inevitable part of living alongside wildlife, but education and responsible behaviour can help ensure both residents and animals remain safe.

“The reason these spaces are so wonderful is because they’re natural,” Thrasher-Haug said. “We just need to share the landscape.” TWilkie@postmedia.com