Town of Whitby Reinforces Coyote Safety Following Recent Incidents

The safety of our community is the Town of Whitby's top priority.

The Town is aware of recent coyote sightings and incidents in the community. While coyotes are a natural part of our local ecosystem, the Town is taking these reports seriously and is actively working to help reduce the risk of future encounters.

Whitby's Animal Services team is working closely with Durham Regional Police Service to monitor reported activity, assess areas of concern, increase patrols where appropriate, and install warning signage to help keep residents informed.

Residents are encouraged to remain alert, particularly near parks, trails, natural areas, and during early morning and evening hours.

To help keep yourself, your family, and your pets safe:

• Keep a safe distance from coyotes and never approach, feed, or interact with them.
• Supervise and keep children close.
• Keep pets on a short leash.
• Be aware of posted signage and follow any guidance.
• Remove food attractants such as unsecured garbage, pet food, bird seed, and fallen fruit.
• If you encounter a coyote, remain calm, do not run, and make loud noises and wave arms if approached to encourage them to leave the area.

Residents are encouraged to report all coyote sightings and incidents through the Town's online reporting tool. These reports help Animal Services identify patterns, focus monitoring efforts, and respond where additional action may be needed.

If a coyote poses an immediate threat to public safety, call 9-1-1 immediately.

More Information

Learn more about coyote safety and report a sighting at whitby.ca/coyotes.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Corporate Communications

Erin Mikaluk
Manager, Communications and Creative Services, Town of Whitby
Phone: 289.314.6913
Email: mikaluke@whitby.ca