Coyote spotted near Sunnidale Park, residents reminded to be wary

A coyote was spotted and photographed on Castle Drive near Letitia Street on Sunday in Barrie.

With the neighbourhood’s proximity to the large wooded Sunnidale Park in the centre of the city, sightings of the animals are not uncommon in the area.

Coyotes, alone and in packs, are frequently seen there, a resident tells BarrieToday.

Tips offered by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry say if you encounter a coyote, it's best to keep your distance and the animal will most likely avoid you.

If you encounter an aggressive animal, do not turn your back or run. Remain calm, stand tall, wave your hands, and make lots of noise while slowly backing away from them.

If a coyote or any other wild animal poses an immediate threat or danger to public safety, call 911.

Pets such as small dogs or cats can be seen as prey for the animals, and should not be left unattended outside.

Always keep your dogs on a leash.

Ministry tips on how to limit attracting coyotes to your property:

• Properly store and maintain garbage containers to help prevent coyotes from becoming a problem
• Keep pet food indoors
• Put garbage out the morning of a scheduled pickup
• Use enclosed composting bins rather than exposed piles
• Pick ripe fruit and seed from trees and remove fallen fruit from the ground
• Protect vegetable gardens with heavy-duty garden fences or place vegetable plants in a greenhouse