Alberta Parks has issued a wildlife warning for the Votier’s Flats Area and Day Use site in Fish Creek Provincial Park due to aggressive coyote behaviour.
According to Alberta Parks, the warning was issued due to "aggressive coyote(s) attempting to attack dogs." The advisory took effect June 12 and is in place "until further notice."
Pet owners are being reminded to use caution and keep pets on leash and under control at all times.
The Government of Alberta says coyotes in urban areas are "highly curious, intelligent and adaptable." They typically feed on rabbits, mice, and squirrels but may obtain up to "30% of the coyote’s diet" from human food sources, especially in areas with suitable cover.
"Previous efforts to remove coyotes in other North American cities have failed," the province says. "Removing individual coyotes or groups of coyotes only leaves a vacancy for others to fill."
Instead, officials promote aversive conditioning, a non-lethal strategy that "attempts to change an animal’s behaviour by making all human-coyote encounters unpleasant for the animal."
Residents are advised to:
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"Never feed coyotes."
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"Remove low branches on trees that can provide hiding places for coyotes."
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"When walking the dog, always keep it on a leash. Pick up the dog feces to throw away in a garbage can."
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"Keep your cats indoors and do not let your dog play outside unsupervised."
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"Use a durable wire mesh to close off spaces under decks, patios and outbuildings."
If a coyote is encountered, people should "respond to their presence aggressively." The province recommends:
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"Wave your arms overhead, or thrust long objects like a walking stick toward the coyote."
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"Throw rocks, sticks or other objects toward the animal."
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"Shout in a deep voice and maintain eye contact."
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"Do not turn away or run."
Aggressive encounters should be reported to the Report-A-Poacher line at 1-800-642-3800.
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