Spring brings surge in coyote sightings across Calgary

Calgarians are spotting coyotes in greater numbers this spring, with reports coming in from neighbourhood streets, bike paths, parks, and pathways across the city.

A rise in sightings and close encounters has been documented towards the end of winter and heading into the spring, and Shelley Alexander, a geography professor at the University of Calgary, says the seasonal timing is a major factor.

“This is the season where they’ve just finished breeding and then they’re going to den and have their pups,” Alexander explains. “This combines with us being outside more, which results in more sightings.”

Last May, Canada Post temporarily altered mail delivery in Cambrian Heights due to heightened coyote activity. Over the summer, a Calgary woman and her dog were attacked by two coyotes in West Confederation Park.

Alexander says these incidents often align with predictable seasonal behaviour.

“There are periods of time where coyotes are more vigilant, and they’re more worried about making sure their mate isn’t taken, or their pups aren’t harmed,” she says.

Spring construction adds another layer of complexity. As building ramps up, coyotes may be pushed out of their usual territories and forced to find new den sites.

“This time of year we can also see displacement related to them having a disruption in their home range,” Alexander notes. “Then they suddenly have to find a new place to have a den.”

Reports of aggressive behaviour, ranging from defensive posturing to attacks on pets, are often tied to coyotes’ heightened protective instincts.

From late winter through early spring, coyotes are especially defensive of their mates. By summer, that vigilance shifts toward protecting their pups.

“From February until now you start to see more mate descents,” Alexander says. “So if a dog, any dog, gets near a coyote’s partner, then they will react.”

How Calgarians can stay safe

Experts emphasize that coyotes are a natural part of Calgary’s urban ecosystem, but residents can take steps to reduce conflict:

• Keep pets close and on a leash, especially in parks and natural areas
• Maintain distance, if you spot a coyote, never approach.
• Remove food attractants from yards, including garbage, fallen fruit, and pet food.
• Seal off potential denning spots, such as gaps under decks and patios.