Have you seen the coyotes in Thorold?
Do you feel safe or do you have concerns with wildlife in our community?
There’s no simple answer to this hot question. We see several facets to consider on this issue, which will be covered this article.
Numerous residents who have lived in Thorold for many years say they have never seen the amount of coyotes currently roaming around our neighbourhoods. This causes them some safety concerns.
On the other hand, wildlife advocates say this influx of coyotes on our city streets is a result of the urban sprawl taking away the coyotes natural habitat. Housing developments on the former Exolon property along Beaverdams Road as well as the new subdivision on Richmond Street off Decew Road are examples of places where coyotes were probably displaced from their Thorold habitat.
We also know that coyotes find an abundant source of natural food in urban settings such as rodents, rabbits and other critters.
This a fact of life in one of Ontario’s fastest growing cities.
How do we handle this issue as a safe, inclusive community?
In conversations across the community and on social media we hear some people say these coyotes on city streets are harmless.
Pamela says coyote attacks are rare but as they run out of their habitat they are becoming more aggressive. Although she is not calling for coyotes to be killed, she feels these wild animals are not harmless as some say.
“Seeing a coyote should not be cause for alarm. Like all other urban wildlife, they’re looking for food, water, and shelter. However, if the coyote is approaching you or in an area that you’re not comfortable with (your backyard, a busy park), consider aversion conditioning (humane hazing) to scare it away. ”
Coyote Watch Canada
While the debate continues on what to do about coyotes, we frequently hear Thorold residents reporting their experiences on social media.
For example, a coyote was seen near the Tim Hortons store in Thorold. Evidently, the coyotes are coming out in the day and moving into the city.
“A few days ago a little black cat was taken and eaten. Please keep your pets safe. Please build shelters for your strays. Many cats in Thorold are missing. “
Raina
“A controlled culling may be required if there’s too many of them.”
Linda
Way before we jump on this idea for a culling, let’s consider the experts’ advice to stay safe if you see a coyote around your house or on the street.
“A coyote will not see a human as potential food – considering their usual prey is a mouse, vole or fallen crab apple. However, like any other species of canid (including your pet dog), they may chase something that runs from them. This is why it’s important to never run from a coyote; stand your ground, wave your arms, make loud noises, and/or throw objects toward (but not at) the coyote to scare it away. ”
Coyote Watch Canada
For public safety balanced with respect for the local wildlife, a community awareness program should be produced to educate residents on ways Thorold can coexist with coyotes. Please join the conversation on our social media pages.