This year, residents have noticed a marked increase in the number of coyotes sighted within our municipal boundary. In particular, coyotes have been noticed in proximity to the town's trail system.

People in residential neighbourhoods must work together to ensure that coyotes don't feel comfortable living in their neighbourhood. Coyotes that are rewarded through direct or indirect feeding will lose their fear of humans and begin to see humans, their yards and their pets as food sources.

A coyote that is comfortable in one person's yard is going to feel comfortable in everyone's yard. Become proactive in the neighbourhood and community by helping to educate residents about coyotes.

Even within cities, adequate food supplies exist to support populations of coyotes. Coyotes are highly adaptable and will feed on: small mammals (mice, voles, squirrels and rabbits), birds (ducks and geese), raccoons, fish, insects or any other available item.

Coyotes can be discouraged from hanging around homes by scaring them off each time they are seen and by removing attractants.

Ensure that garbage and compost is inaccessible, that outdoor pet food is securely stored, fruit is picked from trees and off of the ground and remove/keep clean any rodent habitat (neglected yards, garages or sheds).

A sturdy fence that is at least 2 metres high will discourage coyotes from entering yards. The fence must be dug into the ground or a least flush to the ground to prevent coyotes from going under it.

Coyotes are generally not dangerous, however residents should take precautions to ensure that if you encounter a coyote take the following approaches:

If concerned about a coyote encounter or about encountering aggressive coyotes, keep a deterrent handy. Deterrents could include: rocks, sticks, banging pots and pans, tin cans filled will rocks.

If a coyote approaches a person, make yourself look as large as possible - if sitting, stand for example.

Wave your arms and throw objects at the coyote. Shout at the coyote in a loud aggressive voice.

If the coyote continues to approach don't run or turn your back on the coyote. Continue to exaggerate the above gestures and slowly move to safety.

For more information, non-emergency situations and to report coyote sightings, call the Alberta Government's coyote hotline at 403-297-7789.

To report incidents or injured coyotes, call Alberta Fish and Wildlife at 403-297-6423 or 1-800-642-3800 for after hours.