Some local landowners say coyotes have become a bigger problem than usual in our region.
They’re concerned about the safety of their pets, prompting many of them to bring in hunters to kill the coyotes.
At Big Curve Acres on Highway 11 in Oro-Medonte, owner Reta Regelink says white-tailed deer was attacked and killed by coyotes last week.
“They actually pulled her down in the pad where the cows and calves are,” said Regelink. “We've lost 50 or 60 animals over the years. Neighbours don't even want to walk their dogs.”
A homeowner in Innisfil hired hunter Gerry Heels to kill coyotes that they say have been causing trouble.
“They do hunt by themselves in a lot of cases but when they need to bring down a bigger animal they will get together,” said Heels. “They’re very fast and very smart. Coyotes don’t just follow animals because it is something to do; they’re looking to get a free meal.”
In New Tecumseth, Peter Harvey says he lost about six of his sheep before he became frustrated.
He decided to get a guard dog in an effort to stop the attacks.
“It’s working now but it doesn’t always, and I don’t know if it will keep working or not,” said Harvey.
In southern Ontario, there is a year-round open hunting season for coyotes.
Cities like Barrie have a by-law that outlaws killing the animal within city limits.
However, rural communities like Innisfil, Springwater and Oro-Medonte allow it if people are on their own property and have a small game licence and valid outdoor card.
