Though they typically avoid human interaction, coyotes have adapted to living in residential areas. You are most likely to see a coyote near greenspaces like a park or ravine, but they will go on the streets. You might find coyotes lurking in your backyards, as these spaces offer consistently available food sources.
One of the biggest concerns people have with coyotes is that they will attack pets, even if they’re on a leash with their owner.
Brandon Thorsell, District Manager
Can Coyotes Be a Problem in My Backyard?
A coyote range is around four miles so it usually won’t stay in a backyard. But they are attracted to food sources.
Coyotes also prey on cats and small dogs, forage in gardens for fruits and vegetables, knock over trash bins looking for meals, and eat pet food that’s been left out overnight. Coyotes can spread diseases like distemper, hepatitis, mange, rabies, and tularemia.
Keep pets inside and secure and limit avaiable food sources to prevent coyotes.
Urban Coyotes in Toronto
Recently, a coyote attacked a pet dog. According to CityNews, the coyote “came out of nowhere, and just picked her up, and took off.”
The city of Toronto is reminding people coyote attacks are rare. You can report coyote sights at toronto.ca/coyotes.
You can call 311 if:
- If a coyote has bitten you or your dog or there is a bona fide threat from a coyote
- If you see a coyote that appears sick, injured, or orphaned
- If you see someone feeding a coyote
