Red Deerian reports unusual encounter with coyote on trail near Heritage Ranch

However, whenever she stopped to take a look, the coyote would inch closer.

“It seemed really interested in my dog, who was a lot bigger than the coyote,” she said. “My dog was on a six-foot leash, and I had to pull him closer to me, or else he would have met this coyote.”

She began stomping and yelling at the coyote in an attempt to scare it off, but to no avail. The coyote was unfazed by the attempts, but Klootwyk said she picked up a large stick and swung it around, which made the animal back up.

The coyote continued to keep pace with Klootwyk for approximately two kilometres until it disappeared into the trees.

After calling the report a poacher line at 1-800-642-3800, she said officials explained the coyote may have been guarding a nearby animal carcass. However, she was told they couldn’t do anything unless the animal were to attack a human.

“I just wanted to let somebody know that it was a problem along the path in case someone with smaller dogs was walking. They would have a bigger issue. I was hoping they could post a notice near the trail so that people could know to stay away from the area or to just be alert,” she said.

“I was mostly thinking it was kind of curious and kind of funny, but then he kept trying to get really close to my dog. I was then a bit more worried, but I was glad he backed up once I picked up the stick.”

(Image Credit: Supplied)

In a statement from Alberta Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Services, they said they were not aware of any specific occurrences, but that the best way to prevent wildlife encounters is to proactively secure any attractants that may draw animals into your area.

As per the statement, if you do encounter a coyote, the following steps can help reduce the risk:

Make the experience unpleasant for the animal.
Make yourself appear larger, shout in a deep voice and maintain eye contact with the animal.
Throw rocks, sticks or other objects at the coyote.
If the coyote approaches, back away slowly. Do not turn away or run, as this will encourage the animal to chase you.
If the coyote continues to approach, slowly back toward buildings or an area with people. Deploy bear or dog spray on the animal if it attacks.

They added that concerns related to coyotes are referred to the local municipality unless there is an imminent public safety risk to a person.

Aggressive wildlife encounters should be reported to the 24/7 Report-A-Poacher line at 1-800-642-3800, or online at: alberta.ca/report-poacher.

by Ian Gustafson

Red Deerian reports unusual encounter with coyote on trail near Heritage Ranch

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