Lalande Conservation Park will reopen in phases beginning on June 26, after it closed earlier this month due to an incident between residents and a family of coyotes.
The paved pathway through the park between Plainridge Crescent and Nantes Street will reopen on Friday, June 26. Barricades will remain in place to block access to the remainder of the park until it is expected to reopen fully on Saturday, July 4.
Since the park’s closure, the city and Coyote Watch Canada have been monitoring the coyote den site and utilizing deterrent methods to discourage them from being comfortable around humans. As the coyote pups have become more mobile, they have dispersed and are less tied to the park, according to a release. Staff decommissioned the den on Wednesday, June 24 after confirming it was no longer being used.
As for next steps, the city will continue to monitor the situation at the Lalande Conservation Park, and their re-opening plans are subject to change depending on coyote presence. The release said that coyote sightings are likely, as this area will remain within their urban territory; however, the coyotes now display normal avoidance of humans. Staff expect they will continue to display this behaviour moving forward.
The city said they remind all residents that coyotes and other urban wildlife are common in Ottawa. They encourage residents to take precautionary measures:
Parents are encouraged to remind their children not to approach, disturb or interact with wildlife – especially at this time of year when animals may be caring for and protecting their young.
Animal owners are reminded to keep pets under direct supervision and that dogs should be kept on-leash except in designated off-leash parks. Dogs visiting Lalande Conservation Park with their owners must be kept on leash.
If you spot a coyote nearby, or if it approaches you:
Stay calm and slowly back away
Do not turn your back or run
Stand tall, wave your hands and shout at it
Pick up small children or small pets
Coyotes are usually wary of humans, but it’s still important to understand how to keep safe around them.
If you notice any concerning coyote behaviour, you can report it by calling 3-1-1 or filling out the online form: Report a sighting of a coyote. If a coyote is an immediate threat, call 9-1-1.
Keeping your pets supervised while they are outdoors keeps them safe. This includes keeping them leashed when walking in parks or green spaces.
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