Sarnia area residents continue to report coyote sightings, the most recent coming Thursday morning along Errol Rd. in the area of the Sarnia Golf and Curling Club. It may become even more commonplace with the mating season running from late January to March. Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry spokesperson Jolanta Kowalski says it's important that food not be intentionally or accidentally left outside. She says garbage containers should be properly stored and maintained. "Put them inside an enclosed structure if possible. Try not to put the garbage out until the morning of the pick-up," says Kowalski. "Coyotes are also attracted to things like dog food and cat waste or compost bins, so probably not a great idea to have that out in the winter." Property owners can use deterrents such as fences and motion-sensitive lighting or sprinklers to keep coyotes away. Small pets should be supervised outside and kept inside at night. Those who encounter coyotes should back away slowly while remaining calm.
Photo from morguefile.com
