The Owen Sound Police would like to advise the public of recent Coyote sightings within the city limits. On 25 January 2016 at approximately 12 noon a coyote was observed on the east side of the city. Shortly after midnight another coyote was spotted on the west side of the city. In both cases the animals appeared to be healthy and non aggressive. It is believed they were two separate animals.

Although the presence of coyotes is not new in this area we as residents should be doing whatever we can to limit these occurrences. Not giving coyotes a reason to come into town is the best way to prevent them from becoming a problem.

• Do not feed them (coyotes) or any wild animal.
• Keep your garbage inside until garbage day or use an animal proof container.
• Do not leave pet food outside.
• Do not use bird feeders.
• Supervise your pets whenever possible and always keep them on a leash. Small animals may be seen as prey while larger dogs can be seen as a threat particularly between January and March while coyotes are mating.

Do not approach coyotes, if they lose their fear of humans they will become a bigger nuisance.

If you see a coyote you can call your local police service; if you believe the coyote poses a threat you can call 911. The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) can be contacted at 1-800-667-1940.

Source: Owen Sound Police

{