Toronto Police Service
News Release

Public Safety Alert, Coyote sighting in Sackville Street/Carlton Street area

Monday, February 11, 2013 - 11:28 AM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware of a recent coyote sighting in Toronto.

On Sunday, February 10, 2013, at 9:10 p.m., police were alerted by residents about a large coyote roaming the Sackville Street/Carlton Street neighbourhood. Officers attended and located the coyote but it ran off into the ravine near Wellesley Park. 

Police are reminding residents to use caution and never leave small children or pets unsupervised. 

Here are some practical steps that will help to minimize negative encounters with coyotes:

• Never feed a coyote or any wild animal. Feeding wild animals is detrimental to the community and to the animals 
• Do not feed domestic pets outside
• Ensure all household garbage is inaccessible to animals
• Place garbage at the curb the morning of the scheduled pick-up
• Consider using green bins instead of composters for food waste
• Always supervise pets - keep dogs on a leash and cats indoors or supervised while outside
• Remove dense brush and weeds around property to minimize hiding spots for coyotes
• If you encounter a coyote, wave your arms aggressively, make loud noises, and throw objects in its direction (but not at it) to scare it away. These actions teach coyotes to be afraid of humans and this will minimize conflicts. If these actions do not scare a coyote, back away slowly from the animal. Do not turn your back or attempt to run away.

Animal Services advises that coyotes are a normal part of the city and have been more active during this milder winter than usual. Further information regarding coyotes and preventative measures can be found on their website.

Click here for more information.

Constable Wendy Drummond, Corporate Communications, for Detective Dave Dickinson, 51 Division

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