Unlike the Canucks, the coyotes are going on the offensive in the coming weeks.
The Stanley Park Ecology Society (SPES) is reminding Vancouverites to be mindful of coyotes across the city as they prepare to give birth and seek out dens.
The society is asking residents to remove available food sources — garbage, open compost, wild fruit, pet food and bird seed — so the new pups can learn to hunt natural food sources like rodents and mice.
“Coyotes are normally timid and shy animals,” said Greg Hart, the society’s urban wildlife program coordinator. “We can do our part to keep coyotes wild by scaring them away and removing potential food sources near our home.”
Coyotes typically seek out secluded areas in urban settings: parks, ravines, golf courses, cemeteries, under porches or in vacant buildings.
Because they will have new pups to feed and protect, coyotes may become defensive when approached by people or pets near their den sites.
“We can keep our pets safe by keeping our dogs on a leash and cats indoors this time of year,” Hart said. “If you do come across a coyote, make yourself big, hold your arms out, and shout, ‘Go away coyote!’ Scaring away coyotes helps to reinforce their natural fear of people.”
Coyote litters tend to include between four and seven pups, but can vary based on available food, territory and pack sizes. While many live in family groups, coyotes typically hunt alone or in pairs.
The SPES monitors coyote activity across Vancouver and posts sightings online. Eight sightings were reported in March: two near UBC and Southlands, one in Queen Elizabeth Park and another near Southeast Marine Drive and Kent Avenue.
Three other sightings were reported between Main and Nanaimo streets, between First Avenue and King Edward Boulevard.
For more info or to report a coyote sighting, call 604-681-9453 or go online to stanleyparkecology.ca.
