If you live in LaSalle and see a coyote, the town has a message for you. Save 911 for a real emergency.
In a post on its Facebook page, the LaSalle Police Service acknowledged that it has received a high number of calls from residents concerning coyote sightings. While the service will investigate sightings that become nuisances for property owners, police are asking residents to reserve 911 for life-or-death emergencies only.
"While the LaSalle Police Service encourages everyone to contact us if they observe a coyote as a means of tracking this information, it is unnecessary and improper to call 911 to make such a report," LaSalle police said on their Facebook page. "Unless the coyote is posing an imminent threat please do not call 911."
Police have pointed out that coyotes are in their breeding season, which runs typically through the end of March. Coyote behaviour throughout the winter may be more daring and territorial.
If you see a coyote, call the LaSalle police's non-emergency line at (519) 969-5210. Only use 911 if a sighting leads to an immediate threat to human wellbeing or property.
The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry has provided some tips on how to manage wild animals in your area.
