Town meeting will provide tips on how to deal with coyotes in Oakville

Helping Oakville residents coexist with local wildlife, especially coyotes, is the topic of an upcoming virtual meeting.

The Coyote Information Session will offer people information about seasonal milestones for coyotes and tips on how to respond to coyote sightings.

Attendees will learn about humane hazing (aversion conditioning) how to discourage coyotes from entering your property, how to keep your pets safe, and resources that are available. Residents will also have the opportunity to ask questions.

The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Mar. 19, from 6 to 7 p.m.

You can register for the Zoom meeting here. Once registration is complete, you will receive an email providing you with the link to join the meeting following your registration.

If you just want to watch the meeting, without participating, you can watch the live stream on the Town’s YouTube channel.

Participants are asked to submit questions when they register or by emailing [email protected] by March 18 at 4 p.m.

The Coyote Information Session is held annually in in March.

Coyotes are found in every urban centre in North America. Many people think it is unusual to see coyotes on a town road or sidewalk, however it’s actually very common. Much like foxes, squirrels, raccoons and other animals, they have found a permanent home in urban areas.

Late January to mid-February is mating season. Spring is pupping season. Coyotes tend to be more visible during this time looking for a potential mate and den site.

Coyotes are not considered to be a significant risk to people, but seeing one on your property or while out for a walk can be unnerving. There are steps people can take to avoid conflicts with coyotes.

The town has a coyote management program in place which includes public education. When people are all more knowledgeable of our wildlife and act responsibly and respectfully, it is easier to coexist.