Preventing Conflicts With Coyotes, Wolves and Foxes
Source: Area OPP
Date: Sun Apr 22 02:53:48 MST 2018
Huron County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officers have received some recent calls from members of the public with respect to coyotes in the area and concerns for personal safety.
"Just because a coyote is wandering around doesn't mean it's a danger to people. Coyote attacks on humans are extremely rare but they have been known to go after small pets. People should NEVER feed wildlife"
- Jolanta Kowalski, Media Relations Officer, Ministry of Natural Resources.
Here are a few tips from the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) on how to deal with these animals if encountered on you property:
If you see a coyote, wolf or fox, keep your distance and the animal will most likely avoid you.
If you encounter an aggressive animal:
· Never approach or touch a wild animal
· Do not turn your back or run from a wild animal
· Back away from the animal while remaining calm
· Stand tall, wave your hands, and make lots of noise
· Carry a flashlight at night
· If a wild animal poses an immediate threat or danger to public safety - call 911
How to make your property unwelcome:
· Use flashing lights, motion sensors and noise makers
· Put up a two-metre high fence that extends at least 20 centimetres underground
· Install a roller system to the top of your fence so animals can't gain a foothold
How to prevent conflicts with coyotes:
· Keep dogs inside at night
· Clean up after your dog - coyotes are attracted to dog feces
· Spay and neuter your dogs - coyotes are attracted to, and can mate with, domestic dogs that have not been spayed or neutered
How to protect livestock:
· Where possible, bring your livestock into barns or sheds at night
· Use guard animals, such as donkeys, llamas and dogs
· If livestock has been killed by predators, you may be eligible for compensation through the Ontario Wildlife Damage Compensation Program
Lethal action:
· As a last resort, a farmer may humanely kill or trap wolves, coyotes or foxes that are damaging or about to damage their property
· If you are using a firearm, you must follow certain regulations and local bylaws
· Landowners may also hire an agent to act on your behalf
The MNR can be contact by phone at 1-800-667-1940