Marilyn Leggett

Roaming Coyotes in Oakville Yes, coyotes are definitely roaming around Oakville. I was walking my cocker spaniel in and around Shell Park, this week when I spotted a Coyote. Luckily, my dog did not spot it, or he would have reacted, which could have quite conceivably encouraged the coyote to investigate who was silly enough to taunt him. As it was, I saw him in the underbrush, first. Luckily, it was minding it’s own business, so we just went on our way. I have done some research for those of you who have not: The coyote stands about 60 cm (24 in) at the shoulder, weighs about 9–23 kg (20–50 lb), and is about 1–1.3 m. (3.3–4.3 ft) long, including its 30–40-cm tail. The fur is long and coarse and is generally grizzled buff above and whitish below, reddish on the legs, and bushy on the black-tipped tail. Coyotes are primarily nocturnal, running with tail pointed downward and sometimes attaining a speed of 64 km per hour (40 mph). However, quite often it can be seen at dusk and even during the day. Coyotes mate between January and March, and females usually have four to seven pups, after a gestation of 58–65 days. Births occur in an underground burrow. Both parents feed and care for the pups until they are fully grown and independent, usually at six to nine months of age. Young typically split from the parents in the fall, but some older siblings will help raise younger offspring, and family groups may remain together and form packs during winter. It needs to be stressed that our relationship with coyotes is directly affected by our behavior. Coyotes react to us, and we need to have a mutual respect. The lack of respect through cues we send to them can cause them to react unfavourably. Following are some steps to avoid conflicts with Coyotes: Do not feed or leave food for coyotes Do not let pets run free Do not run away. When you encounter a coyote, shout or throw something in its direction. Do not play victim if you can help it. If a coyote seems intent on defending a certain area, particularly around pupping season (May).,  your best bet may be to alter your route to avoid conflict with a normally calm animal; understand that there may be seasonal patterns of behavioral changes and act accordingly. Consider some sort of noise maker like a can with stones inside. If you see a coyote during the daytime, you should exhibit caution, as that coyote may have become habituated to humans (and may be more likely to attack). While none of want to stop taking our pets for walks, especially along the wonderful trail networks, in Oakville, we need to be cognizant of the fact that we have invaded the Coyote’s natural habitat. Please consider walking in the more wide-open and public areas, especially during the seasons that the Coyotes are more protective and apt to attack. At the very least, keep your wits about you and follow the above advice and carry a noise maker to protect yourselves and your pets. Your comments are always welcome.-Oakville