One might think that with all the sensational media articles about coyotes in different neighbourhoods and jurisdictions, the public would be conscious of feeding wildlife generally, and coyotes specifically. Not so. Feeding remains a serious issue, creating risks for both animals and humans.
A fed coyote is not necessarily a “dead coyote,” as the saying goes. That phrase implies coyotes cannot relearn healthy boundaries towards humans or stop seeing them as a food source once they have been fed. This is false. Coyotes are highly intelligent and, through aversion or "aversive" techniques and removal of food sources, can once again be taught to avoid humans. Still, feeding is a major problem and the direct cause of many unnecessary and avoidable conflicts between people and coyotes. It often leads to public safety concerns and “urgent” demands that coyotes be killed. Feeding can cause coyotes to approach people, often with pets, or remain in areas where they would normally move through to access another space in their homerange or continue on to find new territory.
There are many motivations for direct feeding, ranging from misguided to malicious. This does not refer to the provision of food for scientific purposes or by licensed wildlife rehabilitators, who may do so under strict guidelines. Nor does it include the careless disposal of organic waste that might attract coyotes. Instead, it refers to deliberate decisions to leave out food.
Why People Feed Wildlife and Why It’s A Problem
Even when local bylaws clearly prohibit feeding wildlife, some people continue to do so. Understanding the motivations behind this behaviour can help communities address it and protect both humans and animals. Here are three common reasons people feed wildlife and why each can be harmful.
Helping or Caring
Many people believe they are “helping” wildlife by giving food. It can make them feel relaxed, compassionate, or even connected to the animal. In reality, this is often a selfish act: food-conditioned animals may begin expecting handouts from anyone nearby, leaving neighbours or park visitors to deal with bold or aggressive wildlife. Imagine a coyote in a park receiving food from one person, it may approach others on the same bench expecting more, creating safety concerns and stress for everyone.
Baiting for Hunting or Photos
Some people leave food out intentionally to attract wildlife for personal gain. Photographers may use bait to get the “perfect shot,” while hunters or trappers may lure animals to make hunting easier. These practices can alter natural behaviours, increase human–wildlife conflicts, and put animals at risk.
Malicious Feeding
A troubling and lesser-known activity comes from hostile individuals or anti-coexistence activists who feed wildlife to create problems. In these cases, people deliberately condition animals like coyotes, to linger in residential areas or parks, hoping to generate fear and support for their removal. This behaviour is harmful to the animals, the community, and public safety.
If you notice wildlife feeding in your neighbourhood, document it with photos if possible and report it to your local municipality or councillor. Coyotes and other wildlife rely on all of us to maintain safe, natural boundaries. Responsible coexistence keeps both people and animals safer.
Note: The feeding shown in the photo has been reported and a follow-up conducted by Animal Services.
Guest blog adapted with author's permission.
