Residents in the Anderson area of Woodstock, Ontario, are being told to keep a close eye on their pets and garbage after several reports of a coyote wandering through the neighbourhood. Over the last few days in late January 2026, people living near Anderson Street have seen the animal walking on driveways and peering into backyard windows.
Experts from Coyote Watch Canada say that January and February are the peak of the mating season, which can make coyotes more active and territorial during daylight hours. Local reports indicate the animal has entered fenced-in yards and has appeared bolder than usual around people and barking dogs.
The Government of Ontario suggests residents remove things that attract wildlife, such as unsecured trash bins or pet food left outside. If you encounter a coyote, do not run; make yourself look large, wave your arms, make loud noises, and maintain eye contact as part of standard hazing practices to encourage the animal to leave.
If a coyote seems injured or is acting in a way that worries you, call the provincial Animal Welfare Services line at 1-833-9-ANIMAL (1-833-926-4625). For City of Woodstock animal-control issues, the city’s contracted animal control (Hillside Kennels) can be reached at 519-469-3247. If an animal poses an immediate threat to people, call 911; for non-emergency reports contact the Woodstock Police Service non-emergency line.
This increase in sightings often happens because the Anderson area is close to green spaces such as Southside Park and the Pittock Conservation Area. Local news coverage, including reporting by the Woodstock Sentinel-Review, shows similar sightings have been reported in recent years as development moves closer to natural habitats.
