Vancouver coyote reminder issued by park board

Coyotes are having their pups, and the Vancouver Park Board is reminding locals to be extra aware of wildlife in places like Stanley Park.

In a news release, the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation says during the spring season, coyotes are more active.

“Typically only seen at dusk and dawn, they will often be spotted in the daytime and will behave more boldly to ensure their families are kept safe. This could look like ‘escorting’ humans and pets away from their dens; and standing their ground or acting more defensively if they perceive a threat,” the release notes.

The board says it is important for people to be aware of wildlife, to help both the public and coyotes to coexist peacefully.

“Protecting Vancouver’s wildlife relies on all of us doing our part to ensure both animals and people can enjoy our greenspaces without negatively interacting with one another,” the release reads.

Chad Townsend, the senior planner of Environment Sustainability, says the reminder is a “proactive” way of helping keep both coyotes and people safe.

“Spring’s a really important time for all urban wildlife, but specifically with coyotes, we want to respect their denning sites,” he said.

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The park board adds that coyotes tend to be in sheltered and wooded areas, and says there could be some trail closures in Stanley Park if coyotes are around.

If this happens, it adds that people should respect the closures so the pups and parents aren’t disturbed.

The board is also reminding people to never intentionally leave food on the ground for coyotes, to keep pets on a leash, and to give wildlife plenty of space.

“I think it’s important to give wildlife their space. We unintentionally cause disturbances with walking dogs,” Townsend said. “I think it’s really important that we ask people to not feed in any way, indirectly or directly. I think many people can think of direct feeding, but even if they leave picnics beside bins that is a potential attractant.”

“Wildlife feeding doesn’t do wildlife any favors, whether it be from geese to coyotes to pigeons. Really, it’s promoting habituation and disrupts their natural reaction to humans.”

Anyone caught feeding wildlife could also face a $500, the board notes.

Back in 2021, there were dozens of coyote attacks in Stanley Park, some of which included children. That season ended in 11 coyotes being euthanized.

“Give wildlife space. If you see a coyote, slowly back away. If the animal approaches, act aggressively by standing tall and yelling. Most importantly, do not turn your back or run. Coyotes have a natural instinct to chase after prey and will pursue,” the board notes.

Anyone who spots a problem with a coyote, including aggression, being fed by humans, or if a person comes into physical contact with one, “should be reported immediately” the park board advises. Locals can call Provincial Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) line at 1-877-952-7277.

A coyote that is acting normally can also be reported to the Stanley Park Ecology Society, which tracks behaviours and populations, by calling 604-257-6908, ext 104.