In our natural spaces like the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and the George Genereux Urban Regional Park, coexistence with wildlife, including coyotes, is essential for maintaining the delicate balance of our ecosystems. As we venture into these semi-wilderness habitats, understanding how to peacefully interact with coyotes becomes paramount.
Respect Nature, Respect Coyotes: Let’s Coexist Peacefully
Coyotes, like many wild animals, play a vital role in our ecosystems. They help control rodent populations, which can benefit farmers and gardeners, and they contribute to the overall health and diversity of our natural spaces. However, conflicts can arise when humans and coyotes inhabit the same areas.
During mating season, coyotes may become more protective of their territories and more aggressive towards perceived threats, including pets. It’s essential for pet owners to be vigilant during this time, keeping their animals on leashes and supervising them closely when outdoors.
Coyotes are Neighbors Too: Let’s Share the Space Safely
To promote harmonious coexistence with coyotes, it’s crucial to follow some key guidelines:
- Be Big, Brave, and Loud: Maintain a healthy fear of humans in coyotes by making loud noises and waving arms if encountered.
- Never Feed Coyotes: Feeding coyotes can lead to habituation and bold behavior. Avoid leaving food or pet waste accessible to them.
- Ensure Pet Safety: Keep dogs on leashes and cats indoors, especially at night, to prevent conflicts with coyotes.
- Spread Awareness: Educate neighbors and community members about the importance of coexisting with coyotes and share sightings to raise awareness.
- Implement Preventative Measures: Minimize attractants like pet food, dog poop, water, and trash to reduce coyote visits to residential areas. (Scoop the Poop)
- Supervise and Control Pets: Accompany pets on walks, adhere to leash laws, and provide secure enclosures for small animals.
- Avoid Approaching Coyotes: Respect coyotes’ natural behaviors and boundaries, and do not approach them, their dens, or their pups.
- Educate Children: Teach children about wildlife safety and how to respond to encounters with coyotes or other animals.
For a World Where Humans and Coyotes Roam Safely Together
By following these guidelines and fostering a culture of respect and understanding towards wildlife, we can create safer and healthier environments for both humans and coyotes alike. Let’s embrace the opportunity to coexist peacefully with these remarkable creatures and celebrate the biodiversity of our natural world.
Mass Audubon says, “Coyotes are wary animals who will avoid people at all costs,” and remember to never, never leave food out for coyotes, and this includes dropped dog treats, and dog feces. Scoop your poop!
More information:
Co-existing with Coyotes: A Guide to Harmonious Living
Coyotes: how to co-exist peacefully
City of Saskatoon Advisory: Humane Coyote Management and Coexistence Plan
For directions as to how to drive to “George Genereux” Urban Regional Park
For directions on how to drive to Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
For more information:
NEW P4G District Official Community Plan
Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada north of Cedar Villa Road, within city limits, in the furthest south west area of the city. 52° 06′ 106° 45′
Addresses:
Part SE 23-36-6 – Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A
Part SE 23-36-6 – SW Off-Leash Recreation Area (Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area ) – 355 Township Road 362-A
S ½ 22-36-6 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (West of SW OLRA) – 467 Township Road 362-A
NE 21-36-6 “George Genereux” Afforestation Area – 133 Range Road 3063
Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot
Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com
Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map
Where is the George Genereux Urban Regional Park (Afforestation Area)?with map
Blogger: FriendsAfforestation
Tumblr friendsafforestation.tumblr.comFacebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park
Facebook: StBarbeBaker Afforestation Area
Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas
Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas
Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )
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United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration
- Use the UN Decade’s Visual Identity
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““Be like a tree in pursuit of your cause. Stand firm, grip hard, thrust upward. Bend to the winds of heaven..”
Richard St. Barbe Baker