Friends and family are reporting that packs of coyotes are attacking people near the three First Nations by London, Ont., – Oneida Nation of the Thames, Chippewa of the Thames and Munsee-Delaware.
A social media post warns that a woman was attacked by a pack of coyotes over the weekend and she is currently in hospital after undergoing surgery from the early-morning attack.
The post notes that wild dogs could also be the culprit behind the attack but warns, “they are I’m packs attacking people.”
A number of men were called upon to hunt down the coyotes/wild dogs around the three First Nations while warning to keep children and family inside.
The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources says coyotes are normally wary of humans and are more visible in late winter while looking for food. Conflicts between people and coyotes also occur more frequently from May to July while coyotes are caring for their newborn pups, according to the MNR.
The MNR recommends avoiding feeding coyotes as this causes them to become more comfortable around humans.
Other tips include:
-keeping pet food indoors to avoid inviting hungry coyotes onto your property
-remove fallen fruit and vegetables from the ground
-limit the amount of bird feeders around your property
-keep waste cans stored away from where animals can easily access them until garbage day
-use motion sensor lights
-if you use a fence, install it at least two meters high and at least 20 cm deep into the soil
-close off potential den areas under your porch or other outbuildings
-prevent your animals/livestock from roaming free at night to avoid conflicts with coyotes. Place them in barns or sheds
-never approach or touch a coyote
-stand tall and wave your hands and make lots of noise if you encounter a coyote
-do not turn your back on, or run from, a coyote
-back away facing them
-use a flashlight during nighttime walks
