The Great Toronto Coyote Census: Counting Canines in the Concrete Jungle
Ah, Toronto. A city that boasts the CN Tower, world-class museums, and...a surprising number of cunning coyotes! Those sly pups seem to be everywhere these days, navigating the urban landscape with the swagger of seasoned street performers. But just how many coyotes are actually out there, sharing our pizza crusts and haunting our late-night jogs?
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| How Many Coyotes In Toronto |
The Mystery of the Missing Headcount
Unfortunately, there's no official tally of Toronto's resident tricksters. Unlike a census for, say, overly enthusiastic sports fans (looking at you, Leafs Nation!), counting coyotes is a trickier business. They're wily creatures, masters of camouflage, and not exactly keen on filling out forms (unless they involve juicy garbage bags).
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However, fear not, fellow Torontonians! Researchers have been deploying an arsenal of secret weapons (trail cameras, anyone?) to get a paw-sitive bead on the coyote population. A 2021 study using these hidden cameras captured over a thousand coyote snapshots, hinting at a thriving urban pack.
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Coyote Cafes: All You Can Eat, All Night Long
So, what's keeping these furry friends fat and happy in the city? Well, it turns out Toronto offers a smorgasbord of unintentional coyote cuisine. From overflowing garbage bins to unguarded pet scraps, there's a never-ending buffet for these opportunistic eaters. Pro tip: Keep your trash cans secure and avoid leaving food scraps behind - you might be feeding a future coyote mayor!
Tip: Avoid distractions — stay in the post.
Urban Legends: Are Coyotes Taking Over?
Now, before you barricade yourself indoors with a stockpile of squirrel-flavored chips (a coyote's dream snack, probably), let's relax. Coyotes are naturally wary of humans and generally avoid confrontation. They're more interested in chasing mice than marathons with marathoners (although, that would be a pay-per-view event I'd watch).
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But wait! There have been reports of bold coyotes approaching people and pets. This usually happens when they feel comfortable, thanks to easy access to food or a lack of deterrents.
Here's the bottom line: Respect these wild animals. Keep your distance, leash your dog, and avoid attracting them with food.
How to Live in Harmony with Our Canine Companions (of the Wild Kind)
- How to Coyote-Proof Your Yard: Secure your trash cans, pick up any fallen fruit, and avoid leaving pet food outside overnight.
- How to Act When You See a Coyote: Stand tall, make noise (a whistle or a shout works wonders!), and back away slowly. Don't run - you might trigger their chase instinct.
- How to Keep Your Dog Safe: Keep your furry friend on a leash, especially at dawn and dusk when coyotes are most active.
- How to Report a Problem Coyote: If a coyote is exhibiting aggressive behavior, contact Toronto Animal Services.
- How to Tell the Difference Between a Coyote and a Really Big Fox: Coyotes are larger, with bushier tails and pointed ears. If you're unsure, it's always a coyote.
Remember, coyotes are just another thread in the vibrant tapestry of Toronto's urban ecosystem. By understanding and respecting these wild neighbours, we can all share the city in peace (and maybe avoid becoming an anecdote in a future coyote survival guide).
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