UrbanAnimal

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Dear UrbanAnimal,

I just moved from a farm in the Georgian Bay area to midtown Toronto and have seen coyotes in the ravine behind my new home. We saw these fascinating creatures regularly in the country, but I didn't realize they were in the city, too. For the sake of coyotes everywhere, could you write about them in your column?

Denise

Thank you for your question, Denise.

I'm also a big fan of coyotes and was similarly amazed when I heard reports of their existence in highly populated areas such as Toronto.

It shouldn't come as a surprise, though, since the city continually expands its boundaries and encroaches on wildlife habitat. With the extensive ravine system and parks running throughout southern Ontario, wild animals are forced to flee their usual homes and they find a natural corridor through all our green spaces.

According to Toronto Public Health, coyotes have adapted well to city life, but can cause problems for property owners and residents. They're often seen just after dawn or before dusk, hunting in open areas, running along highways or near ravines. They're called "trickster" in native lore and for good reason - they're smart, alert and curious.

Humans are coyotes' only natural predator, but as their presence becomes known and their numbers grow, they become less fearful of us and that's when the problems begin.

Their natural diet includes rodents, rabbits, groundhogs, carrion, birds, eggs, snakes, fruit and foliage, but when living in close proximity to humans, they're happy to forage through garbage cans and dumpsters. Unfortunately, cats that are allowed outdoors and pet rabbits kept in outdoor pens can be seen as lunch to the average coyote, so diligence is required when coyotes are spotted in your neighbourhood.

Coyotes and dogs view one another as natural enemies and there have been a few reported cases of attacks, especially if dogs are allowed to roam or are tied up outside with no human supervision.

People may be especially concerned about their pets contracting rabies from a coyote and although coyotes are indeed susceptible to this disease, a survey conducted in 2006 in Ontario showed 82 confirmed cases among animals but none of these were coyotes.

Coyotes can carry distemper, infectious hepatitis, mange, leptospirosis and parvovirus as well as other diseases that are transmissible to our pets. Ontario law requires pets to be vaccinated against rabies and your veterinarian can recommend other vaccines and preventive products if your pet's lifestyle puts it at risk for other diseases.

If you see a coyote behaving in an unusual manner, contact your local animal services office. Symptoms of rabies can include approaching dogs or people, attacking pets, staggering or limping with weakened hind legs, attacking inanimate objects or acting in a confused manner.

Personally, I love to see coyotes and all forms of wildlife in my neighbourhood, but I am concerned for their safety. Be aware of their presence, enjoy them from a distance and take measures to ensure they keep clear of humans by keeping garbage secure, keeping pet food inside the house and cleaning your barbecue after each use.

E-mail jacque-newman@rogers.com with a question, comment or suggestion.