Here’s what you should do if you spot a coyote in your neighbourhood

Kanata residents say they’re unnerved after packs of coyotes were spotted travelling down residential streets in the area. CTV’s Peter Szperling reports.

Seeing a coyote in your neighborhood can be concerning, but according to the City of Ottawa, the vast majority of urban coyotes never come into conflict with people.

“A lot of coyotes do their best to avoid people,” says Dom Ferland, the city’s Wildlife Resource Officer. “But in some areas, people see them more than others, especially if there’s a really convenient spot for them to really travel through a neighborhood,” he says.

Are they dangerous?

“They’re generally not dangerous,” says Ferland. “If you encounter them — presuming they’re a bit closer and they’re not leaving or they’re curious and they’re approaching you slightly—- you just have to make yourself a big be loud, be confident, and especially don’t turn your back around all the wildlife.”

The City of Ottawa has information available on their website about what to do.

“Seeing a coyote should not alarm you. It is normal for coyotes to travel their territory, hunting and looking for food. They are usually not interested in humans.”

Suggestions offered if a coyote is near or if it approaches you:

• Stay calm and slowly back away
• Do not turn your back or run
• Stand tall, wave your hands, and shout at it
• Pick up small children or small pets

“Teach your children to react the same way, and to let you know immediately if they see a coyote. To avoid close encounters at night, carry a flashlight and avoid walking in wooded areas.”

Some residents concerned by sightings

Kanata Lakes resident Tammy Forbes says she’s seen coyotes in previous years on the neighbouring golf course, but a few weeks ago spotted three of them walking down her street.

“I was scared, actually, because I’d never seen it before. I’ve always seen just one, and to see three, like, actually on the road was a little nerve wracking.”

A video posted to social media by another area resident also shows three coyotes walking down a residential street.

Another resident of Kanata Lakes, Paddy McKeown says she saw a coyote in at a nearby storm water pond last month while walking her dog, who she keeps on a leash at all times.

According to the city, pets should be kept indoors or under close supervision when they are outside. The city suggested to “keep your dog on a leash when walking in parks, green spaces or any natural area.”

How to report a coyote sighting

The city has a webpage dedicated to reporting coyote sightings.

You can also call 3-1-1 if you see a coyote that you are concerned about.

According to the city, there were 650 reports in 2025, and 644 in 2024.

“Although extremely rare, if a coyote poses an immediate threat or danger to the public, call 9-1-1.”

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