100 John West Way, Aurora, Ontario, Canada, L4G 6J1

Information Regarding Coyote Sightings

Photo of a coyote

Coyotes in Aurora

Coyotes are common in York Region and many sightings have been made in the Town of Aurora over the past several years. Coyotes migrated to Ontario from the west more than 100 years ago. Since then, they have adapted well to both rural and urban environments. Coyotes perform an important role as a predator in southern Ontario, helping to control the populations of rabbits, rats and mice.

In the country, coyotes are commonly found in open, agricultural land that includes woodlots and areas covered with brush. In cities, coyotes prefer natural green space, such as parks, ravines and stream banks.

Coyote Behaviour

Coyotes are usually wary of people and avoid contact whenever possible. It is unusual for coyotes to show no fear of humans. Coyotes displaying no fear of humans or exhibiting aggressive behaviours have likely been habituated to people through direct or indirect feeding.

Conflicts can often be prevented by making changes on your property. For example, removing sources of food by protecting pets and livestock, fencing gardens, and securing garbage and compost, will help encourage coyotes to go elsewhere. Most importantly, never feed coyotes or other wildlife.

More information about Coyotes

The Ministry of Natural Resources is responsible for wildlife management in the province of Ontario. They have extensive information about coyotes, including a number of useful fact sheets on the Living with Coyotes section of their website.

Contact information about Coyotes

The Ministry of Natural Resources is asking residents who have observed situations where coyotes are exhibiting no fear toward people or are aggressively approaching people or pets to report any incidents to their Aurora District Office at 905-713-7400. Residents may leave a message at that line or use the auto attendant to speak directly with staff during regular business hours.

If there is an incident with a coyote that is a threat to public safety, please call 911 and alert York Regional Police.

For more information visit the Ministry of Natural Resources website.

Information Regarding Coyote Sightings

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