Coyote threat in Barrie's Sunnidale Park sparks urgent calls for solutions

Residents living near Sunnidale Park in Barrie are calling for immediate action to address a growing coyote problem in their neighbourhood.

Angela Thompson, one of the concerned residents, says the animals have become increasingly aggressive over the past year, with frightening incidents of circling, snapping, and "menacing behaviour attacks."

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Thompson is frustrated with the City, Barrie police and the Ministry of Natural Resources, saying her requests for help have gone unanswered.

"They need to address it, whether it's relocating them, trapping them, or finding them another home, but they can't just ignore it," said Thompson.

Dawn Ward lives in the area and says her two golden retrievers were nearly attacked on Sunday during a walk. She, too, has contacted the City, asking for support to remove the animals.

"I don't like having animals dealt with in a way that is harmful. I love animals, but obviously, this is not working, and they even took the big signs down from Sunnidale," said Ward.

Signs were initially installed after a small dog was snatched from its owner's leash by a coyote at the park in April.

Thompson worries it could happen again.

CTV News contacted the Ministry of Natural Resources for a statement and was told, "Municipalities are responsible for taking appropriate actions when human-wildlife encounters create ongoing conflict situations on municipal property. Municipalities can also take action on private property with the permission of the landowner, and no approval or authorization is required from the ministry."

In an email to CTV News, Barrie Police Services noted it is aware of several occurrences involving wildlife, particularly coyotes, and reminded residents if an animal poses an immediate threat to public safety to call the police.

It continued, "All other calls should be directed to the Ministry of Natural Resources or the City of Barrie Bylaw Enforcement Services if wildlife is being fed or food is being left out as an attractant."

Still, Thompson says the situation has escalated to a level that can't be ignored.

"It is very frustrating because I do feel like we are in danger. If it's a matter of them hanging around it wouldn't be an issue, but it's not. We are actually getting attacked and menaced," said Thompson.

CTV News reached out to the City of Barrie for a response but has yet to hear back.