City officials are warning Calgarians to be on alert after an increase in coyote sightings.
In a news release, the City of Calgary warned it’s currently denning season, which can make coyotes “more protective and possibly aggressive if you are in the area of their dens.”
City of Calgary parks ecologist Tanya Hope warned people to keep an eye out when walking their dogs in parks and river pathways.
“If the den is close to the pathway, a coyote can be very aggressive, trying to get anything away from it — including humans.”
She warned the animals may approach humans or even nip at them in an attempt to scare them away.
Panorama Hills resident Tarvinder Bajwa encountered a coyote while biking in the community last weekend.
“The coyote was sitting right next to the pathway down on the ridge, and we just passed by and it was okay – but it was too close for comfort,” he said.
For more information, you can view the City of Calgary’s coyote’s FAQ on their website.
Who should you call regarding coyotes?
- In an emergency situation where there is immediate danger, call 911.
- For non-emergency situations and to report coyote sightings, please call 311 (from within Calgary) or 403-268-CITY (2489) (from outside Calgary).
- Calgarians can also report coyote sightings or injured coyotes to the Calgary district office of Alberta Fish and Wildlife at (403) 297-6423 or 1-800-642-3800 after hours.
With files from Jill Croteau