During the last week of January, Mississauga Animal Services conducted a door-to-door canvas of streets in our neighborhood. Those who answered the door were informed that there had been two recent incidents, in broad daylight, of coyotes breaching fences and attacking small pets. In one such incident the residents were present and witnessed the attack. Those who were not home received a package containing brochures that included two pieces of material specific to coyotes.
As coyote sightings are most prevalent at dusk, sightings during the day are a cause for concern. Rockwood is an area with close proximity to a large population of coyotes that live in the ravine. For many years, they have regularly been spotted in the fields north of Audubon. Also, the hydro lines create a natural pathway for coyotes to gain access to a broader feeding area. Residents who live south of Audubon or in areas adjacent to the ravine, and the hydro fields, are all too aware that coyotes often wander on their streets or properties, but generally at night.
Since there is no plan to control the coyote population, you need to be aware of the danger of leaving small pets and children unattended when they are outdoors. You should also ensure that your pets are properly vaccinated and always check your yard before letting your pet outside at night. While walking your dog, keep it on a short leash.
Most important in keeping coyotes away from residential areas is to make sure that they are not able to find food. Do not leave food for pets outside, do clean up bird feeder grains that fall on the ground and store all garbage and compost in containers. The City recommends a solid six inch fence with mesh underground to prevent burrowing, and light sensors and sprinkler systems to keep coyotes out of your property.
Coyotes will avoid scary situations. For personal safety when walking, particularly at night, bring a flashlight or an umbrella. If you see a coyote, wave your arms, flash the umbrella, and shout to startle and scare it away.
If you see unusual coyote activity, call Animal Services at 905-896-5858. If in immediate danger, call 911. For additional information visit: mypetmississauga.ca
As coyote sightings are most prevalent at dusk, sightings during the day are a cause for concern. Rockwood is an area with close proximity to a large population of coyotes that live in the ravine. For many years, they have regularly been spotted in the fields north of Audubon. Also, the hydro lines create a natural pathway for coyotes to gain access to a broader feeding area. Residents who live south of Audubon or in areas adjacent to the ravine, and the hydro fields, are all too aware that coyotes often wander on their streets or properties, but generally at night.
Since there is no plan to control the coyote population, you need to be aware of the danger of leaving small pets and children unattended when they are outdoors. You should also ensure that your pets are properly vaccinated and always check your yard before letting your pet outside at night. While walking your dog, keep it on a short leash.
Most important in keeping coyotes away from residential areas is to make sure that they are not able to find food. Do not leave food for pets outside, do clean up bird feeder grains that fall on the ground and store all garbage and compost in containers. The City recommends a solid six inch fence with mesh underground to prevent burrowing, and light sensors and sprinkler systems to keep coyotes out of your property.
Coyotes will avoid scary situations. For personal safety when walking, particularly at night, bring a flashlight or an umbrella. If you see a coyote, wave your arms, flash the umbrella, and shout to startle and scare it away.
If you see unusual coyote activity, call Animal Services at 905-896-5858. If in immediate danger, call 911. For additional information visit: mypetmississauga.ca
