People in Midwestern Ontario should stay vigilant as coyote mating season kicks off, a period when these animals are more active and can often be spotted during the day.
This breeding time lasts from late January through February, leading coyotes to roam further, become more territorial, and view dogs as competition. Wildlife officials indicate that this increases the likelihood of encounters, especially in rural regions where coyotes are commonly found.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry suggests that residents keep their dogs leashed, avoid leaving pets unattended outside, and eliminate food sources like unsecured trash, pet food, and fallen fruit. Farmers are also advised to secure livestock and clear away potential den locations around their properties.
If you come across a coyote, it’s recommended not to run but instead to stay still, make some noise, appear larger, and slowly back away while keeping eye contact. Feeding wildlife is strongly discouraged since it can lead to aggressive behavior.
Officials remind us that coyotes are a regular part of Ontario’s environment; prevention and education are key strategies for reducing conflicts during the mating season.
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