Earlier this spring, a park in Panorama Hills/Hidden Valley (Country Hills Boulevard and Hidden Creek Boulevard NW) was closed due to the presence of an active coyote den there. Because coyote pups were in the area, there was protective behaviour by the coyotes and the area was deemed unsafe for residents.
As the pups got older, the hope was that they would leave the area. The City of Calgary has been monitoring this situation closely, and it appears the animals have returned to their usual shy behaviour around humans. Because of that, a portion of the park has been reopened this week.
What you need to know right now, is that the green space remains closed, and residents are to remain on the pathways only. For the safety of the dogs and owners, no dogs are allowed in this park at this time, on pathways or not. Bylaw officers will be in the area patrolling to ensure safety for the residents there.
Throughout the reopening of this park, City of Calgary Parks officials will be providing information on how to coexist with wildlife in urban parks, but some advice for the meantime:
- Pick up your children and small pets if necessary.
- Stand still, never run from a coyote or fox.
- Make yourself big, wave your arms up and down.
- Be loud and assertive: clapping hands, yelling, etc.
- Slowly back away.
Posted by Kirby Cox on​It is important to note that seeing a coyote in a park is not cause for alarm. They are curious animals and will often watch visitors. [City of Calgary]
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