As the spring season arrives in the Durham Region, local authorities are seeing a natural uptick in animal activity. The City of Oshawa is officially reminding the community to wildlife proof your home as coyotes begin their annual denning period to raise new pups. Following the winter mating season, these animals are currently seeking out secure locations to rear their young, which often brings them into closer proximity to residential neighborhoods and backyard spaces.
Understanding Coyote Denning Season
During the months of April and May, coyotes become more protective and visible as they establish dens. While coyotes are generally elusive, the need to provide for and defend their litters can lead to more frequent sightings in urban areas. To minimize the risk of negative encounters, the city emphasizes that proactive property maintenance is the most effective way to wildlife proof your home and discourage these animals from nesting near your family or pets.
If you suspect a den has already been established near your property, the city advises residents to contact Service Oshawa immediately at 905-436-3311 or through their online portal. In the meantime, it is vital to avoid the area and ensure that dogs are kept on a leash no longer than six feet to prevent territorial conflicts.
Proactive Steps to Secure Your Property
The City of Oshawa has provided a comprehensive checklist for residents looking to wildlife proof your home effectively:
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Eliminate Food Attractants: Ensure all garbage bins are securely locked. Keep pet food indoors and regularly clean up fallen fruit or birdseed, which can attract the small rodents that coyotes hunt.
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Maintain Your Yard: Overgrown vegetation provides ideal cover for dens. Keep your lawn trimmed and clear out brush piles. Additionally, cleaning outdoor cooking areas and removing dog waste can reduce enticing scents.
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Seal Entry Points: Inspect your property for gaps under decks, porches, and sheds. These “crawl spaces” are prime real estate for a coyote looking for a quiet denning spot.
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Supervise Pets: Always supervise pets when they are outdoors, especially at night, and ensure they are brought inside during the evening hours.
Safety Protocols for Encounters
If you happen to encounter a coyote while walking in a local park or on your street, the city stresses that you should never run. Instead, stand your ground, pick up small children or pets, and make yourself appear as large as possible by waving your arms. Being loud and assertive often discourages the animal. Slowly back away while maintaining eye contact until you are a safe distance away.
By taking the time to wildlife proof your home now, you contribute to a safer environment for both the community and the local wildlife. The city uses all sighting reports to monitor activity levels and determine if specific neighborhood signage or communications are required to keep residents informed.
