You may notice more coyotes out and about around Vancouver, with officials saying the animals are “in the midst of their breeding and denning season.”

Vancouverites are being reminded to take extra care, with the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation saying the animals may be more visible during the day as they look to feed and protect their young.

The board notes coyotes generally start breeding in January, and “new litters are beginning to emerge.”

With little ones in the mix, the board says coyotes are now establishing dens, guarding their territories, and gathering more food to feed their young.

While they are generally more commonly seen around dusk and dawn, the park board says coyotes during this time are more visible in the day.

“This could look like guiding humans and pets away from their dens and adopting a more defensive stance when feeling threatened,” the board explains.

Coyote reminders

The Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation says it may restrict access to certain trails, like those in Stanley Park, during this time in an effort to reduce interactions and disturbances to coyotes and their pups.

People are being reminded to never leave food on the ground, or to offer food to wild animals. The Vancouver Park Board says feeding wildlife can come with a $500 fine.

It is also asking people to respect trail closures, to keep pets on leash at all times on trails, to dispose of waste properly, and to give wildlife space.

If you run into a coyote, you’re told to slowly back away. The park board says if the animal approaches you, “act aggressively by standing tall and yelling.”

“Most importantly, do not turn your back or run. Coyotes have a natural instinct to chase and will pursue,” the board explains.

In 2021, dozens of attacks by coyotes were recorded during the summer in Stanley Park, closing trails and ultimately leading to the BC Conservation Service undergoing a cull.

Up to 35 coyotes were trapped and killed after the alarming number of attacks on humans.