February Long Weekend Hours! - Saturday and Sunday 1pm - 4pm | Family Day Monday 11am - 4pm

Coyotes

Canis latrans

Lethbridge's abundance of natural areas provides excellent coyote habitat. Coyotes are well adapted to thrive in urban settings. They are an important part of Lethbridge's ecosystem, playing an important role in managing rodent populations within the city.

Coyotes are more active at dawn and dusk. They mate in the spring and rear pups through the summer, during which time they may be more defensive and protective.

Coyotes do not pose a threat to humans in normal situations. They have a natural fear of humans. However, they can become defensive or attack pets if they are protecting their food, den, or young. Attacks on people and dogs on leash are extremely rare. In the rare cases of documented coyote attacks on humans, the coyote has been fed by humans. Experts agree that coyotes will avoid humans until they associate people with food sources.

Learn more

Coyotes and Pets

Conflict between coyotes and pets can occur. Recognize the risk and take steps to prevent conflict. Remember that coyotes are opportunistic hunters and will sometimes prey on outdoor cats and small dogs. They may also try to intimidate a medium to large-size dog if it enters their territory. You can reduce the risk of your pet having a serious encounter by:

  • Keep cats indoors.

  • Keep your dog on a leash when walking, especially in the river valley. Avoid extension leashes.

  • Stick to maintained trails and pathways.

  • Maintain sight and control of your dog while at off-leash dog park, and if you see any type of wildlife put your dog on a leash.

  • Supervise your pet when outside on your property, especially at dawn and dusk.

  • Never allow your pets to 'play' with a coyote.

  • Install fences and ensure gates are closed.

Prevent Attracting Coyotes
  • Never feed a coyote.

  • Keep your property free of garbage and secure compost in containers.

  • Remove fallen tree fruit, dense shrubbery, and pet waste.

  • Keep pet food inside.

  • Make areas in the yard less inviting for rodent habitat and coyote burrowing (under decks, sheds, porches).

  • Avoid leaving small pets outside unsupervised.

If you encounter a Coyote

Coyotes are usually wary of people and will avoid them when possible. Everyone has a role to play to encourage this natural fear of humans - approach each coyote encounter aggressively with these techniques:

  1. Be big - appear threatening by making yourself appear larger and wave your arms.

  2. Be loud - clap, shout, bang sticks together, or use a whistle!

  3. Be aggressive - if the coyote does not respond to noise, throw sticks or stones while slowly leaving the area.

  4. Be prepared - carry dog spray in areas frequented by coyotes.

  5. Do not run!

More Living with Wildlife Tip Sheets

Oki
The City of Lethbridge acknowledges that we are gathered on the lands of the Blackfoot people of the Canadian Plains and pays respect to the Blackfoot people past, present and future while recognizing and respecting their cultural heritage, beliefs and relationship to the land. The City of Lethbridge is also home to the Metis Nation of Alberta, Region III.