Calgary's Coyote Neighbors: How to Live Safely in Our Shared City
The Gist
Remember that "Husky" you thought you saw in a bustling SW shopping area recently? You're not alone if you mistook our wild neighbors for a furry friend. Calgarians are reporting more coyote sightings, a trend that's been steadily rising over the past decade. Our 311 service saw a significant jump of 67% in reports between 2018 and 2019 alone! These wily urban dwellers are Calgary's top predator, playing a vital role in keeping our rodent populations in check and maintaining biodiversity. You'll often see reports spike between January and March during their mating season, and again in summer and fall as their young strike out on their own.
Impact on Calgarians
So, what does this mean for your daily dog walk in Ward 11 or a stroll through The Bow River Pathway? For some, it's a genuine concern. Andrea Trainor, a University Heights resident, voiced a common sentiment, stating, "We're seeing them all day every day... I don't know where people walk to feel safe." In northwest Calgary's Cambrian Heights, coyote encounters even led Canada Post to temporarily adjust mail delivery, switching to a team approach every three business days. To keep yourself and your pets safe, the City advises some simple steps: eliminate food attractants like unsecured garbage, outdoor pet food, or fallen fruit, and seal off tempting dens under decks or porches. If you find yourself face-to-face with a coyote, stand tall, make loud noises, maintain eye contact, and back away slowly – whatever you do, avoid running. And please, keep your dogs on a leash in parks and known coyote areas, and ensure your feline friends stay indoors. For non-emergency sightings, dial 311; if there's an immediate threat, it's 911.
The Reality Check
Despite the increasing visibility, coyotes are not new to Calgary. They've adapted remarkably well to both our urban sprawl and natural park areas. Aggressive encounters with humans are, thankfully, rare. The City of Calgary champions peaceful co-existence, guided by its "Coyote Conflict Response Guide." This proactive approach includes public education and non-lethal hazing techniques to deter problem animals. Legally, coyotes are classified as wildlife under Alberta's *Wildlife Act, RSA 2000 c W-10*, and as a nuisance under Alberta's *Agricultural Pests Act, RSA 2000 c A-8*. Crucially, feeding wildlife, including coyotes, is against both the *Alberta Wildlife Act* and City bylaws. Our Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw (Bylaw Number 47M2021) also includes coyotes in its definition of "Wildlife," reminding pet owners of their role in respecting these regulations.
The Flip Side
While some might suggest more drastic measures, research consistently shows that lethal removal or culling of coyotes is generally ineffective. In fact, such actions can sometimes backfire, potentially leading to increased breeding and higher population numbers. This science-backed understanding underpins the City's focus on education and prevention, rather than eradication, as the most effective long-term solution.
The Bottom Line
Coyotes are a permanent fixture in our beautiful city, from Deerfoot Trail underpasses to our vast park systems. Understanding their habits and taking common-sense precautions are key to reducing conflicts. Let's embrace our role as responsible Calgarians, ensuring we can all safely share this incredible place we call home. Keep those garbage bins locked, those pets leashed, and let's show our wild neighbors the respect they deserve – from a safe distance, of course.
