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PARKS AND TRAILS
COYOTES

If your home is near a wooded area, ravine or a new residential area where coyotes have been established it is not unusual to see a coyote. However, if you see a coyote with any of the following behaviours you should contact the Police:
• exploring a home or building far from their natural habitat
• entering a barn area where large animals are housed
• limping or staggering or with paralyzed hind legs
• acting confused
• injured or deceased
In the event that a coyote, dog or other wild animal is presenting an immediate threat to public safety, residents are encouraged to call the police who can take care of the problem. Ministry of Natural Resources staff can offer information about wildlife and dealing with nuisance problems.
For your information:
The Coyote is a natural part of rural and urban areas near ravines or wooded areas. Some residents welcome coyotes as part of the area wildlife, while others are concerned for the safety of their pets, children and families. In many cases, the concern stems simply from seeing the animals. Normally coyotes pose no danger to adults, but people should be aware there are potential risks to pets and small children. Coyotes, by nature, are fearful of humans. Attacks by coyotes on people are very rare (only a few documented cases in all of Ontario) - far more uncommon compared to dog attacks on people. In all known cases of coyote interactions with people the coyote had lost its fear of humans because people were feeding the animals.
If you are walking in an area known to have coyote activity here are some suggestions:
• Walk in small groups • Carry a personal audible alarm and flashlight or umbrella which can be opened to scare them off. If you are approached by a coyote, stay calm and wait until they move on. You can make a loud noise to scare them off, but do not run. • To prevent coyotes from entering your yard, enclose it with a solid fence preferably six foot in height. • Properly store and maintain garbage containers. This will prevent raccoons, skunks, cats, dogs, & coyotes from becoming a nuisance. It will also discourage the presence of small rodents, which are an important food source for coyotes. • Remove pet food left outside. It will prevent coyotes and other wildlife animals from being attracted to your property. • Avoid composting meat products. The smell of the meat composting will attract them to your property/area as a food source. • Do not approach or feed coyotes. Coyotes are wild animals, but can become more comfortable with humans as a result of regular contact. There may be more contact between coyotes and humans if they are fed or otherwise encouraged to stay near residential areas. • Remember that bird feeders attract birds, squirrels and rodents, which may attract coyotes. • Use motion-sensitive lights in yards or gardens. Well-lit yards or the use of motion sensitive lighting will make a property less attractive for coyotes and other nocturnal wildlife. • The use of whistles and personal alarm devices can be used to frighten an approaching or threatening animal. Within the municipality if your home is near a wooded area or ravine it is not unusual to see a coyote. However similar to encounters with any other wildlife residents are urged to use caution and follow the information supplied to avoid contact or threatening situations.
Trail Map
Double click link above to open The map is a PDF 985KB and can be re-sized once opened.
The City of St. Catharines “The Garden City” invites you to enjoy the many parks, greenspaces and trails that are part of our vibrant community. You can keep fit year-round by enjoying a walk, leisurely stroll or a brisk run on one of the many trails in our city. Be sure to take the camera too, and simply experience the wonderful landscapes and the tranquility of a park. Get the kids outdoors and spend time with family and friends at one of our many playgrounds, visit the animals at Happy Rolph’s, and take the time celebrate the vibrant history and landscapes you will find in the parks.
Enjoy!
NEW AT BURGOYNE WOODS PARK - LEASH FREE DOG AREA
Located in the north/east corner of Burgoyne Woods
1 acre fenced area for small dogs
4 acre fenced area for large dogs
PLEASE FOLLOW THE RULES OF THE PARK
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