Ottawa Bylaw warning against leaving food outside after daylight coyote sighting

Ottawa Bylaw says a coyote was spotted in a residential neighbourhood in Kanata after food was placed outside. (Ottawa Bylaw/X)

Ottawa Bylaw is reminding residents to avoid leaving food outside because while it may bring in cute critters, it can also draw in other unexpected visitors.

The warning comes after a coyote was spotted near a home in Kanata in broad daylight.

“The coyote was observed near feed that had apparently been put out for wildlife. (Bylaw and Regulatory Services) officers are currently working with the property owner to have the food source removed,” said Ottawa Bylaw director Roger Chapman in a statement to CTV News Ottawa.

The City of Ottawa does not relocate coyotes, as it is not considered an effective or practical solution to wildlife conflict.

Coyotes are common in the Ottawa area and typically do not come into contact with humans, but the City of Ottawa says feeding them could lead to trouble.

“Conflicts between coyotes and humans usually happen because of food. Feeding coyotes can cause them to lose their natural fear of humans, a process known as ‘habituation’ which increases the chance of conflict,” the City of Ottawa says. “Aggression by coyotes towards humans is extremely rare and usually involves habituated animals. It is not normal behaviour.”

Coyotes can pose risk to pets. Cats that are allowed to roam or other small animals could be perceived as prey, and dogs may be attacked. It is recommended to keep pets under supervision at all times when outdoors.

Ottawa Bylaw says you should not approach if you see a coyote.

“Coyotes are part of Ottawa’s natural ecosystem. While they are not typically dangerous to humans, the city reminds residents to take precautions if a coyote approaches, such as making noise, standing tall and backing away slowly. If you see a coyote, give it space and never feed wildlife,” Chapman said.

Additional information on coexisting with coyotes is available at ottawa.ca/coyotes.

If a wild animal poses an immediate threat to public safety call 9-1-1.