Cape Breton Highlands National Park of Canada

Coyotes and Visitor Safety

Parks Canada is working with experts in coyote behaviour and ecology, wildlife management, and human behaviour and education to develop and implement best practices for public safety in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Visitors to any park or natural area should be aware of the risk of wildlife encounters, not just with coyotes.

There are a number of things that you can do to improve your personal safety

General

• Do not feed coyotes and be sure to properly dispose of garbage and other food sources. Coyotes that have access to our food lose their fear of people.
• Ensure children are accompanied by an adult at all times.
• Learn to recognize hazardous behaviours and situations.
• Report incidents promptly to Parks Canada at 1-877-852-3100.

Hiking

• Hike with friends.
• Carry a solid walking stick.

Camping

• Sleep inside a tent.
• Store food in coolers inside vehicles when not at the campsite.
• Dispose of grey water properly.

If you see a coyote at a distance

• Stay back. Do not approach the animal.
• Watch it carefully to assess its behaviour.
• Look for other animals.

If the coyote approaches or is close by

• Maintain your distance. Do not turn your back. Do not flee.
• Back away slowly.
• Stay together.
• Act big. Make noise, wave your arms, and try to scare it away.
• Identify and maintain escape routes.

If a coyote attacks

• Fight back. Shout, throw stones, use whatever is available to defend yourself.

To learn more:

Hinterland Who’s Who

Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources: Be Coyote Smart

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources