Urban Coyotes: A Saskatoon Reality Check

Coyote sightings, while down significantly from last year, continue to be a part of urban life in Saskatoon. Residents near natural areas like riverbanks report regular encounters, such as one near the Meewasin Trail where a coyote was seen with prey. City officials note a substantial drop in reported sightings, attributing this to a recent bylaw that bans feeding wildlife.

This new regulation, implemented earlier this year, has reportedly helped normalize coyote behavior by removing a key attractant. Despite this success, city patrols have not yet issued any fines, indicating the bylaw's educational and deterrent effect. Signs have been posted in affected neighborhoods to inform the public.

Wildlife experts emphasize that coyotes are native to the urban environment and generally not aggressive unless provoked. They advise residents on humane methods to discourage close encounters, such as making oneself appear larger and making noise. The city maintains that it will only intervene if a coyote exhibits abnormal behavior, recognizing their ecological role in controlling rodent populations.