Natural Resources wildlife technician William Grover says it is normal to see coyotes this time of year because it is breeding season. As well, a lack of leaf cover also makes animals more visible.
Grover met earlier this month with town officials to discuss wildlife in the area because councilors and staff face public concerns about safety, dealing with injured animals, and even with sightings of rare creatures such as the mainland moose.
In Digby’s case, “there were some concerns about coyotes,” said Mayor Ben Cleveland. “They just brought us up to speed on coyotes and the hazards.”
Grover talked about how Natural Resources responds to specific concerns as well.
“There was a presentation by our biologist Peter MacDonald on coyote biology,” said Grover.
He said people who spot coyotes should report them only if they are displaying unusual behavior, such as loss of fear to humans or if the animal appears unhealthy.
“I’ve investigated coyote reports throughout Digby County and all suggested normal behavior and no animals were removed,” he added. “The risk of attack and injury from coyotes is extremely low. Coyotes have been in the province over 30 years yet only a few incidents have been recorded.
“We do live in a wildlife habitat, so seeing wild animals from time to time is normal.”
We do live in a wildlife habitat, so seeing wild animals from time to time is normal. - Natural Resources wildlife technician William Grover
Grover provided tips on what to do if encountering a wild animal such as a coyote.
Do not approach the animal and back away while maintaining eye contact, he said. Do not run from the animal.
Grover also said to make loud noises and make yourself appear larger.
“It’s not going to want to stick around if it feels challenged,” he said.
There are normally two reasons for a wild animal to hang around an urban area—an alternative source of food and shelter. In most cases if you remove or block access to what is attracting the animal they will move on.
He said it is rare for Natural Resources to have to remove the animal and he has yet to remove any coyotes.
Grover said the last animal the department needed to remove was a bear that had a craving for green bins last summer.
There are nuisance wildlife operators that are trained and licensed to remove animals such as raccoons or skunks.
Calls about wildlife sightings or concerns should be made to a local Natural Resources office, Grover said.
He said coyotes can be hunted year round but can only be trapped by licensed nuisance wildlife operators throughout the year or by licensed fur harvesters during a trapping season.
