Spring is denning season for coyotes living in the Vancouver area. Coyotes build their dens in concealed locations like secluded parts of parks, behind thick blackberry bushes, and if given the opportunity, underneath abandoned buildings. With new pups to protect, coyotes may become aggressive if approached near denning sites for the next couple of months.

If you come across an active den site or notice coyote pups, please report it to the coyote information phone line, 604-681-WILD, and avoid the area. Please also keep dogs on leash in and around parks, as curiousity can lead to unnecessary conflicts between coyotes and pets.

It is also advised to remove potential coyote attractants from yards and parks. Garbage, yard fruit, bird feeders and pet food will attract opportunistic coyotes. From April to July, young coyotes will be learning the skills they need to survive in the city. By reducing attractants, coyotes will learn to hunt for their own favourite food, small rodents such as mice and rats, rather than learning to depend on people for food.

For more information or to report a coyote sighting or den site, please call 604-681-WILD.