In Regina parks this month, coyotes have been sighted beyond just the movie theatre. Scott Paton, a regular at Les Sherman Park, came across a curious coyote in mid-August while walking his dogs. The animal approached within about 10 feet without showing aggression, possibly attracted by food. Paton continued his walk, alerting others in the park, where a woman mentioned a coyote had been seen around for weeks. Despite spotting coyote scat in the area, Paton remains unconcerned, stating that coyotes are a common part of the urban habitat.
In the Cathedral neighborhood, residents have expressed discomfort with coyote sightings in Les Sherman Park and Kiwanis Waterfall Park since August, as reported on Facebook. Numerous posts recount encounters where coyotes approached and followed people and their pets. Some users mentioned the coyote’s comfort around humans, as it did not react to attempts to scare it away with loud sounds or gestures.
City Councilor David Froh had a similar experience on a morning run in Les Sherman Park, noting the coyote’s ease in approaching people and pets. Although wildlife sightings are usual and usually do not require immediate action, persistent sightings pose a public safety risk that necessitates a response from city officials. The City of Regina disclosed receiving reports of two coyotes in the area and collaborating with provincial conservation officers to safely remove and relocate the animals.
Froh clarified that the removal process involves tranquilizing the coyotes for both community safety and animal welfare. While acknowledging the concerns surrounding coyote sightings, Froh emphasized that such encounters are not uncommon in Regina, underlining the importance of ensuring the safety of pets and wildlife. He urged residents to report sightings of wild animals that may pose a safety hazard to the city.
While the movie “Coyote vs. Acme” featuring Will Forte is currently showing in various Regina theaters, real-life coyote sightings should be promptly reported to the City of Regina for appropriate action.