Over the weekend in our serene community, a concerning incident occurred on the Old Town Trail along Highway 22, resulting in the focus on enhanced safety regarding human-coyote interactions. The presence of several coyotes in the area has highlighted the urgent need for implementing peaceful and humane strategies to coexist with these wild animals.  https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19ibFr4iDX/

Coyotes are a natural part of the ecosystem, and it's imperative to respect their space. Unfortunately, human actions such as feeding or trying to interact with them can lead to a loss of their natural wariness, drawing them closer to human habitation, which can result in unfortunate incidents and needless conflict. Rather than resorting to measures like leghold trapping, snaring, or shooting, which are inhumane, we must prioritize coexistence strategies that maintain the safety of both residents and wildlife.

Introducing community education programs focused on coyote awareness and proper protocol during an encounter is essential. Signage along trails and communication through local media can help people understand the importance of keeping a safe distance and securing food sources properly, avoiding accidental feeding or attraction of coyotes. These approaches can prevent coyotes from becoming too familiar with humans, reducing the likelihood of negative encounters.

Moreover, the development of strategic management plans involving habitat modification and non-lethal deterrents can be effective in maintaining a safe distance between coyotes and humans. Ensuring that Parks Canada leads with science-based research and community-involved programs will guide our coexistence efforts effectively.

We urge Parks Canada to lead by example and adopt a humane model for managing wildlife interactions. By signing this petition, you join a community of concerned citizens advocating for animal welfare and public safety. Let's work together to create a balanced ecosystem where humans and wildlife thrive side by side. Please sign this petition and let's show our commitment to a compassionate and effective solution.

🐺 Coyote incident and safety reminder

Parks Canada staff are responding to a human-coyote incident that occurred over the weekend on the Old Town Trail along Highway 22.

Several coyotes have also recently been seen in the area. Coyotes are wild animals and should be given plenty of space. Please do not approach, feed or attempt to interact with coyotes.

Feeding or intentionally attracting wildlife can cause animals to lose their natural fear of people. This can bring them closer to populated areas and increase the risk of human-wildlife conflict.

If you encounter a coyote:

Make yourself look large.
Use a loud, confident voice to scare it away.
If you are in a vehicle, you can use your horn.
You can also throw rocks in the animal’s general direction if necessary.

These actions help reinforce coyotes’ natural fear of people and can help prevent future conflicts.

Parks Canada staff respond to hundreds of human-wildlife incidents each year involving food, garbage and other human-related attractants. We all have a role to play in keeping wildlife wild. Please make sure food, garbage and other attractants are properly secured, and never feed or intentionally entice wildlife.

Seeing wildlife in its natural habitat is a privilege. Please give animals the space and respect they need to remain wild.

Feeding, enticing or disturbing wildlife in a national historic site is illegal and may result in charges of up to $25,000 under the Canada National Parks Act.

📸E. Le Bel