Coyotes sightings on Niagara College campus and throughout Niagara-on-the-Lake

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Published September 22, 2022 at 4:33 pm

The month of September saw seven separate coyote attacks on residents and pets in Burlington alone and now it seems it could become a similar problem in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Niagara College’s Niagara-on-the-Lake campus reported today (September 22) that there had been “an increase in coyote sightings both on campus and in the community.”

The college added that they “are asking students, employees, and visitors to use caution and common sense should they encounter wildlife. Coyotes are an important part of our ecosystem and sightings are not uncommon in the Niagara Region. Seasonal factors as well as human behaviour may elevate coyote sightings.”

The college offered up these recommendations:

  • Do not approach coyotes, their dens, or their pups, and never feed them.
  • Coyotes will do their best to avoid humans but may interact when provoked.
  • In the rare case you encounter a coyote, back away while remaining calm, stand tall, wave your hands, and make noise.
  • When walking around at night, be aware of your surroundings and considering carrying a flashlight and a whistle.

The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake’s website has information about what to do if residents encounter a coyote and steps people can all take to keep them away, such as keeping food sources (trash, bird feeders, pet food bowls) away HERE.

The college added, “With respect, compassion and education in mind, humans can safely coexist with coyotes.”

If you believe a coyote is a direct threat to human safety (bold aggression such as growling, stalking, chasing), call 911 immediately.

To report a coyote sighting on campus, contact Campus Safety at 905-735-2211 ext. 6999.

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