Coyotes

Given the natural settings we are fortunate to enjoy in our community, coyotes are not uncommon to various parts of Brantford. However, the close proximity of residential properties to these natural settings sometimes results in wildlife venturing into residential areas and raising safety concerns among residents.

Avoiding Coyote Conflicts

Coyotes usually avoid people whenever possible. However, they are wild animals and should not be approached. Do not feed coyotes. Feeding coyotes makes them less fearful of humans and habituates them to foods provided by humans which can lead to aggressive behavior near people and pets. Secure garbage containers with locking lids or in an enclosed structure and wait to put garbage out for collection until 7 a.m. instead of the night before to prevent encounters. To keep your pets safe, keep cats indoors and never leave small dogs outside unsupervised or let any dog out of your yard off leash.

Deter coyotes from your property

An availability of water, shelter and food sources like garbage, pet food, and birdfeeders make residential areas attractive to coyotes. Be sure to make your property uninviting to a coyote:

  • Store garbage and pet food in a place coyotes cannot access.
  • Clean up after your dog. Coyotes are attracted to dog feces.
  • Use flashing lights and motion sensors.
  • Pick ripe fruit and seed from trees and remove fallen fruit from the ground.
  • Protect vegetable gardens with heavy-duty garden fences or place vegetable plants in a greenhouse.
  • Consider putting up a fence.
  • Clear away bushes and dense weeds near your home where coyotes may find cover and small animals.
  • Close off spaces under porches, desks and sheds. Coyotes use these areas for denning and raising young.

Encounters with Coyotes

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry has specific guidelines related to safety tips and preventative measures that residents should adhere to if and when coyotes are sighted in urban areas. If you encounter an aggressive coyote, there are several things you should know and do:

  • Never approach or touch a coyote.
  • Pick up small children and pets.
  • Do not turn your back on, or run from, a coyote.
  • Back away from the coyote while remaining calm.
  • Stand tall, wave your hands and make lots of noise.
  • Carry a flashlight at night to scare off coyotes.

To report a coyote sighting within the City of Brantford please access our online form. 

Report a Coyote Sighting

If you see a sick or injured coyote, please contact the City of Brantford at 519-759-4150.

If a coyote poses an immediate threat or danger to public safety, call 9-1-1.

Learn more about preventing and managing conflicts with coyotes on the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry’s webpage.