A jogger was bitten by a coyote near the University of Waterloo campus, prompting safety reminders from officials.

The university said it happened on Nov. 12, when a report was received by the University of Waterloo Special Constable Service (UWSCS) that a woman was bitten by a coyote while out for a jog around the pathways from Health Service Road to Ron Edyt Village.

They said she was bitten when confronted by the coyote, but was able to kick the animal and escape to safety, where she was then treated in hospital and received her necessary shots following the incident.

It was then reported to Public Health, with the UWSCS notifying Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) and the Kitchener-Waterloo Humane Society.

With other sightings also being reported by staff members since that incident, it has now led to various safety alerts and public reminders being issued by both the university and the City of Waterloo.

It’s also recommended to keep all dogs on a leash and to carry a flashlight when out in the evening or night, to use as an additional tool to scare off coyotes, as well as for better vision to spot them.

While coyotes can be a danger when confronted, the city said it is possible for both the community and those coyotes to coexist, as they help in controlling rodent populations and, normally, they avoid people.

They should not be fed or approached, and if seen, residents should:

Stay calm and keep their distance

Be big and loud, stand tall, wave your arms, and clap your hands

Slowly back away; do not turn away from the animal or run, as it can trigger a chase instinct from the coyote

Coyote sightings are more common over the winter months as access to food becomes limited for the animals and their winter mating season generally lasting from January to February, during the winter.

While it’s important to stay alert and stay safe, it’s only recommended to reach out to call 9-1-1 if those coyotes cause an immediate risk to public safety. Residents can also call the Humane Society if a dead coyote or other wildlife is found.