The City of Oshawa is warning residents that coyote activity is on the rise as adult coyotes raise their pups across local neighbourhoods. A public notice issued on June 25, 2026, says coyotes become more active and visible at this time of year while they search for food to feed their young.
Coyote sightings are most common during three key seasons: winter mating from January to February, spring denning and pup-rearing from March to June, and fall when pack members disperse. The current increase falls within the pup-rearing window, which can extend into the summer months.
The City operates under a Council-approved Coyote Response Management Plan that focuses on education and behaviour change to help residents and coyotes coexist safely. It works with Coyote Watch Canada, a federal not-for-profit group that provides on-the-ground support and community education.
Oshawa officials urge everyone to report coyote sightings to Service Oshawa online, by email at [email protected], or by calling 905-436-3311. Reports help the City track where coyotes are most active and respond when needed.
To reduce the chance of a coyote coming onto your property, the City advises securing garbage, keeping pet food indoors, cleaning up fallen fruit and bird seed, and sealing gaps under decks, porches, and sheds. Pets should be supervised when outside, especially during dawn and dusk when coyotes are most active.
The warning comes shortly after a coyote attacked a 2-year-old child on July 5, 2026, at Vanier Park in nearby Whitby. The child suffered serious but non-life-threatening facial injuries before adults intervened. No similar attack has been reported in Oshawa, but the incident highlights why the City is asking everyone to stay alert and remove food sources that attract wildlife.
