The City of Markham has put up new signs, installed trail cameras, and added fencing while continuing to patrol the affected areas after a series of coyote incidents led York Regional Police to issue a second public safety alert.
On Wednesday, police mentioned they received three reports of worrying coyote behavior in parks near Mc Cowan Road and 16th Avenue within just 24 hours. They urged residents to stay alert and watch over children and pets, especially during the early morning and evening.
On May 21, a 16-year-old girl was reportedly bitten by a coyote close to Mingay Avenue and Bur Oak Avenue. She was taken to the hospital with minor injuries, as per police reports.
Another reported encounter with a coyote near Mc Cowan Road and 16th Avenue led YRP to issue an earlier public safety warning, though details about that incident were not released by police.
In a statement, the city emphasized that community safety is its top priority. It has been collaborating with York Regional Police, Coyote Watch Canada, Shades of Hope, and the Ministry of Natural Resources in response to these recent events.
“The Animal Services team continues to actively patrol and monitor the area,” the city stated.
Residents are reminded to keep their distance from wildlife and refrain from approaching or feeding coyotes. The city also recommends supervising children at all times, keeping pets on short leashes, paying attention to posted signs, and avoiding isolated or wooded areas where visibility might be low.
The city notes that limiting human food sources is one effective way to reduce encounters. Residents should avoid feeding wildlife, secure trash bins and compost containers, remove fallen fruit and birdseed, and keep pet food indoors.
If anyone encounters a coyote that doesn’t quickly leave the area, they should make noise by yelling, clapping or stomping while maintaining a safe distance without approaching the animal.
Aggressive coyotes or those lingering near people should be reported right away to York Regional Police by calling 911 if there’s an immediate threat to public safety. Sick or injured wildlife can be reported to the city’s wildlife service provider at 905-415-7531.
Markham also reminds residents that feeding wildlife is against regulations and can result in an immediate fine of $615.
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