Coyote denning in your backyard?

Coyotes are part of Mississauga’s natural wildlife and help keep local ecosystems healthy. From April to July, they look for safe, hidden places to build a den and care for their new pups. This time is called denning season. The City of Mississauga is sharing tips to help residents understand this natural behaviour and learn how to keep themselves and their pets safe.

Understanding coyote denning season

In spring, coyotes choose a place to make their den. They give birth and stay close to the den until their pups are old enough to explore in early summer.

During this time, coyotes may:

• Act more defensively than usual when people or pets get close.
• Make more vocal sounds, like yips, growls, or howls.
• Show “escorting” behaviour, where they follow at a distance to guide you away from their den.

As spring arrives, rabbits and rodents also become active. This can lead to more coyote sightings as they hunt for food.

Why some backyards are ideal for coyote dens

Coyotes usually make their dens in wooded or natural areas. When they are pushed out of their natural habitats by human activity, construction, or off‑leash dogs, they look for new places that feel safe. Sometimes a quiet backyard can become a den site when it:

• Feels quiet and protected.
• Is not visited often.
• Seems safer than nearby natural areas.

If you think a coyote has made a den on your property or in a place that could affect public safety, do not go near it. Contact Mississauga Animal Services at 905-896-5858.

Make your yard less attractive for denning

• Remove food sources such as garbage, compost, or fallen fruit.
• Clear fallen branches, tall grass, and unused wood piles.
• Close off openings under decks, sheds, or porches.
• Install meshing on the entrance points of culverts to prevent access by wildlife while allowing the flow of water.

What to do if you see a coyote

If you see a coyote, stay calm and give it space. Most coyotes will move away on their own. To keep yourself and your pets safe:

• Do not run.
• Stand tall and wave your arms to look big.
• Make loud noises like clapping or yelling to scare it away.
• Keep dogs on a short leash and pick up small dogs if you see a coyote.
• Walk dogs in areas where you can see your surroundings.
• Avoid thick bushes, areas with heavy foliage, and unmarked, wooded paths as coyotes may be resting there.
• Keep cats indoors and supervise pets closely when in backyards.
• Never feed wildlife; it is illegal and unsafe.

Watch for escorting behaviour

If you get too close to a coyote’s den or an area it wants to protect, the coyote may show escorting behaviour. This means the coyote is trying to guide you away from its pups or den because it feels unsure or protective.

The coyote may:

• Follow you from a distance.
• Hunch its back.
• Make barking or yipping sounds.

If this happens:

• Stop and face the coyote.
• Make yourself look bigger (wave your arms or open your jacket).
• Make loud noises.
• Back away slowly to leave the area. Do not run.

Supporting safe neighbourhoods during coyote denning season

Working together, residents and the City can help keep neighbourhoods safe during denning season. Staying alert, following safety tips, and reporting dens in problem areas helps protect families, pets, and coyotes. If you need help or see a den on your property, reach out to Mississauga Animal Services at 905‑896‑5858.

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Tags

• Animal Services
• Public Safety
• Wildlife and Pets