The B.C. Conservation Officer Service says it has received three reports of a coyote(s) approaching runners and cyclists in Stanley Park in the last few days.
In a recent incident, the BCCOS writes in a Facebook post that a coyote nipped a jogger's pants.
Conservation officers are continuing patrols in Stanley Park and working with area groups on public education efforts around reducing wildlife conflicts.
The Vancouver Park Board Tweeted that park rangers are closing trails in the Brockton Oval area due to the coyotes.
There are more reports of coyotes nipping at joggers in #StanleyPark. Rangers are closing trails in Brockton Oval area. Aggressive behaviour is often the result of animals being fed by people. Do not approach or feed them. Report coyote sightings to 311 & https://t.co/uj4UilN2qz
— Vancouver Park Board (@ParkBoard) January 19, 2021
Coyotes pursuing people is not normal behaviour
Coyote sightings in the park are not unusual, but coyotes pursuing people is not normal behaviour. Wild coyotes are naturally curious animals, however, they are timid and will usually run away if challenged.
Coyotes start posing a risk to people when they lose their wariness and become comfortable around humans - this is usually a result of direct or indirect feeding by humans.
This likely indicates the animal(s) have been fed, explains the BCCOS. And it is illegal to feed dangerous wildlife, such as coyotes.
Park users are encouraged to familiarize themselves with safety tips and please check for trail closures.
If a coyote approaches you, the BCCOS encourages you to make yoursefl as large as possible, face it, wave your arms, yell, and throw sticks, stones or other objects at the coyote.
For other safety tips, please visit here.
Please report encounters to the RAPP line at 1-877-952-7277.
