The city is seeing an insurgence in the number of urban coyotes and is asking Calgarians to help them track the canines by calling 311 if you see them in your neighbourhood.

Coyotes usually feed on small mammals, like mice, but they are scavengers and will eat almost anything.

The coyotes are attracted by food sources within the city, like garbage left in laneways and back yards.

The city says it is important to eliminate these food sources and residents can do a few things to help avoid encounters:

  • Ensure pet food is stored securely and pets are not fed outside
  • Make sure garbage bins and compost piles are not accessible
  • Pick up fruit that has fallen from trees
  • Maintain feeders and store bird seed properly
  • Don't approach or feed coyotes
  • Secure open areas under porches, decks and steps
  • Never leave small children unattended
  • Keep pets on a leash, in closed yards or inside the house, especially at night
  • Clean up after your pet as coyotes are attracted by dog feces

If a coyotes approaches:

  • Do not run or turn away
  • Shout and make noise to scare it away
  • Maintain eye contact and back away slowly

The city says if you do encounter a coyote, to make sure you make lots of noise to let it know it is not wanted.

For non-emergency situations and to report coyote sightings, call 311 (from within Calgary) or 403-268-CITY (2489) (from outside Calgary).

Calgarians can also report coyote sightings or injured coyotes to the Calgary district office of Alberta Fish and Wildlife at (403) 297-6423 or 1-800-642-3800 after hours

For more information on urban coyotes, visit the City of Calgary's website.