Durham Regional Police are urging the public to remain vigilant after several incidents involving coyotes in the area.
A three-year-old boy was hospitalized on Monday after being bitten by a coyote in the area of Coronation and Rossland Rds. in Whitby. He is currently in stable condition.
The police department is warning pedestrians and pet owners to exercise caution when using public spaces, especially when accompanied by small children or pets. Coyotes are most active during the early morning and evening hours.
If a coyote exhibits aggressive or unusual behavior, individuals are advised to report it to the authorities. In case of an immediate threat to public safety, residents are instructed to call 911.
Whitby regional councillor and mayoral candidate Chris Leahy is calling for coyote safety education in local schools following two attacks on children. He believes that education is a crucial tool in reducing the risk of coyote encounters and ensuring children know how to react if they encounter a coyote.
Leahy wants to introduce a Coyote Response Policy to coordinate efforts and establish a clear community-wide response to coyote activity. The policy would focus on prevention, public education, reporting protocols, and coordinated responses to aggressive coyote behavior.
He emphasizes that simple coyote aversion techniques, such as standing tall, making noise, never running away, and reporting sightings, can make a significant difference in keeping children safe.
Leahy believes that the recent incidents serve as a wake-up call for the municipality and that it is essential to develop a proactive strategy that protects residents while promoting responsible coexistence with wildlife.
