Whitby coyote attacks involving two young children prompted councillors to hold a special meeting focused on public safety, wildlife management and the town’s response to aggressive animals.
The educational meeting was held on July 20, 2026, following growing concern among residents about coyote activity in Whitby neighbourhoods, parks and natural areas.
Town staff presented information about coyote behaviour, local habitats, reporting procedures and Whitby’s Coyote Coexistence and Response Strategy.
Councillors also questioned staff about how the town identifies and responds to coyotes believed to pose a danger to the public.
Recent Whitby Coyote Attacks Raise Concerns
The meeting followed two reported attacks on young children within approximately one month.
One incident occurred on July 5 at Vanier Park, where Durham Regional Police said a two-year-old was bitten in the face during an unprovoked coyote attack.
The child suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to hospital.
Whitby staff told council that the town had euthanized two coyotes believed to have been involved in the recent attacks. Staff also explained that determining which individual animal was responsible can be difficult.
Regional Coun. Chris Leahy said wildlife sanctuaries should be considered when a problem coyote can be safely relocated rather than destroyed.
He acknowledged that public safety must remain the priority but argued that relocation should be examined before a healthy animal is euthanized when a reputable sanctuary is available.
Whitby Reviews Coyote Response Strategy
Whitby’s coyote strategy focuses on reducing conflict through public education, managing food attractants, monitoring reported activity and responding according to the level of risk.
The town recognizes coyotes as part of the local ecosystem but says aggressive or habituated animals require timely intervention.
Whitby Animal Services works with Durham Regional Police and other partners to monitor sightings, investigate concerning behaviour, increase patrols where appropriate and install warning signs.
Leahy has also called for additional public education in elementary schools, better tracking of sightings, faster responses to dangerous behaviour and discussions with the Ontario government about urban wildlife policies.
Mayor Elizabeth Roy said town staff are working proactively with police and wildlife organizations to address public concerns.
What Residents Should Do During a Coyote Encounter
Residents who encounter a coyote should remain calm and avoid running.
The Town of Whitby recommends:
- Keeping a safe distance and never approaching the animal.
- Making yourself appear larger.
- Waving your arms and making loud noises.
- Keeping children close and supervised.
- Keeping dogs on a short leash.
- Removing outdoor food sources.
- Reporting all sightings and concerning behaviour.
Potential attractants include unsecured garbage, pet food, birdseed, fallen fruit and intentional wildlife feeding.
Sightings should be submitted through Whitby’s online coyote-reporting tool. Reports help Animal Services identify patterns and determine where additional monitoring or action may be required.
Anyone who encounters a coyote posing an immediate threat to a person should call 911.
