Coyote Activity on the Rise Across Nova Scotia: A Community Advisory

It seems like clockwork every year, doesn't it? Just as the leaves start hinting at their autumn brilliance and there's a certain crispness in the air, we get that gentle, yet firm, reminder from our friends at the Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources and Renewables. Yes, you guessed it: coyote season is officially upon us, or at least, a period of increased activity that warrants a heads-up. Across our beautiful province, folks are noticing more coyotes out and about, and the DNRR is asking us all to be a little more vigilant, especially with our furry friends and little ones.

So, why the uptick right now? Well, it's pretty straightforward, really. This time of year sees young coyote pups, who are no longer quite so little, venturing out from their dens. They're on their own, learning the ropes, and, crucially, searching for food. Add to that the approaching colder weather, and every creature out there is trying to stock up. It’s a natural cycle, but it does mean these intelligent animals might be seen more frequently, perhaps a bit closer to our homes than usual, as they follow their noses to potential food sources.

While reports might pop up from just about anywhere in rural Nova Scotia, areas like the Halifax Regional Municipality and Cape Breton often see a noticeable surge. But honestly, if you live anywhere with a bit of tree cover or a nearby green space, it's worth being aware. These aren't just wilderness creatures; they've adapted, and they’re incredibly resourceful, meaning they can thrive quite close to human populations.

Alright, so what’s the sensible approach? First off, let’s talk about our pets. It really can’t be stressed enough: if your dog is outside, keep them leashed. Always. Even in your own yard, if it’s not fully enclosed, supervision is key. And those irresistible smells from our garbage bins and compost piles? They're like five-star restaurants for coyotes. Make sure everything is sealed up tight and out of reach. We really don’t want to inadvertently invite them for dinner, do we? Feeding any wildlife, even if you mean well, only encourages them to become comfortable around humans, and that rarely ends well for anyone, especially the animals.

And for our smallest humans, it goes without saying that children should always be supervised when playing outdoors, especially during dusk and dawn when coyotes are most active. Now, if you do encounter a coyote and it seems a little too comfortable or curious for your liking, don’t panic, but do act. The pros call it "hazing," and it basically means making yourself seem big and scary. Yell, stomp your feet, wave your arms, maybe even throw a small rock or stick near it (not at it, let's be kind but firm). The goal is to remind them that humans aren't to be messed with and that they should keep their distance.

Most of the time, a coyote will simply observe you or move along, especially if you give them space. They're usually more interested in finding a meal than confronting a human. But, and this is important, if a coyote shows signs of aggression – like stalking pets, acting fearless, or approaching people without being provoked – that's when you need to make the call. The Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources and Renewables is the agency to contact in such situations. They’re equipped to handle these rare but concerning encounters.

Ultimately, coyotes are a natural and integral part of Nova Scotia's ecosystem. Living alongside them means understanding their behaviour and taking a few simple, proactive steps to ensure both our safety and theirs. A little awareness and common sense go a very long way in making sure we can all coexist peacefully.