Testimonials
Read all of the great things that community members like you and municipalities have said about our great work with educating the community on wildlife safety, preservation and advocacy. Want to submit yours?
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I had the pleasure of meeting with Lesley Sampson; her deep knowledge and respect for wildlife are beyond extraordinary. Education is key. I have had 5 encounters not sightings with coyotes in NOTL and needed some reassurance, and guidance as to the handling of 2 smaller dogs that when they saw the coyote, became aggressive, not docile. Slightly terrifying. Understanding that creating a barrier between us is key. Not fearing but being bigger and loud. Most important modifying human behaviour, even more, is the key to keeping them as wildlife. Lesley and the team work so very hard and I have the utmost respect for what they do. Thank you Lesley for your precious time and patience. Appreciated, Helen G.
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A truly phenomenal presentation put on today in the Canid Response Training workshop from some of the wonderful and dedicated members of Coyote Watch Canada - Lesley Sampson, Becky Rothwell and special guest Dr. Shelley Alexander, in association with WRSOS, of which I am so grateful to be a part. With all the information I've gained from this excellent training program, I have come away feeling better informed, empowered, and enlightened on the struggles that our indigenous canid species experience in our country, and the methods and steps that need to occur in order to change the perception and misconceptions of these marvellous animals.
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This is a little tribute to one of my favourite women in the world. Lesley Sampson, my coyote sister, this one’s for you. (click the link)
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I notice the incredible volume of new construction as I drive through southern Ontario. The urban sprawl reminds me of molten lava, flowing over the country side. From a bird’s eye view, the larger cities have shingles that seem to touch, and it is difficult to see even a glimmer of grass between the houses. The old fields and natural forests are plowed and the wildlife – including coyotes – are forced to retreat or adapt. Cries of outrage echoed in the last year as suburban homeowners reported sighting coyotes in their backyards. Whose yard, I wondered. The media quickly spun the sightings into drama, instilling fear among homeowners. It peaked as hunters – disguised as vigilantes – were asked to seek out the coyotes and slaughter them. Contrary to popular belief, as a realtor I am not excited to see a plethora of new houses or big box stores being constructed in suburbia. I would much rather see the forests preserved and development instead focused on in-filling vacant lots and replacing derelict houses. Not only would this help the wildlife and natural areas, it would also help populate the areas surrounding the downtown core. The wonders of nature need to be reintroduced to our lives. The entire community needs to be encouraged to enjoy more time outdoors and the many gifts nature has to offer. I am so comforted by groups such as Coyote Watch Canada. It is a group of dedicated people who spend countless hours educating the community and helping to preserve wildlife. At Coyote Watch Canada seminars, leaders such as Lesley easily explain the importance of researching and understanding coyotes in order to have the knowledge to resolve and prevent conflict between humans and wildlife. She explains the importance of coyotes in helping maintain a balanced and healthy ecosystem, which in turn provides basic needs to people such as clean air and water. Whenever the pressure of our complex city life rattles my nerves and numbs my brain, I seek relief in the woods and when I hear coyotes calling in the distance, I am happy. I offer my gratitude to individuals and groups who help educate communities and preserve nature. My hope is that groups like Coyote Watch Canada will continue to teach children respect for nature and help restore balance in the environment. As Dr. Seuss wrote, “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” A special thank you to Coyote Watch Canada for caring a whole awful lot.
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Coyote Watch Canada has been a great partner with our school. Representatives responds to all sightings immediately and have contributed resources to the school. Coyote Watch Canada field observations have provided valuable information to the community and the City of Niagara Falls.
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Joining us at Heartland Forest as guest speakers, Coyote Watch Canada shares our vision to preserve and educate. Coyote Watch Canada co-founder Lesley Sampson demonstrated her passion and incredible energy for sharing her information about wildlife. This is evident no matter who her audience is. She easily engaged both students and community members in effectively learning that every human being is a part of the natural environment and that being a responsible steward of nature ensures a safe and memorable experience for all.
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Just wanted to send out a big thank you to Coyote Watch Canada who provided so much helpful information and we were so glad to see there was support available
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Thank you, Lesley and Coyote Watch Canada, for your invaluable service to the community. Your work has truly made a difference for hundreds of coyotes, and thousands of residents.
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The students thoroughly enjoyed the presentation and all the facts! Thanks!
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Your presentation was really great and I do thank you for travelling here to educate us about the coyotes. Those of us who have dogs and know their dogs can see that same behaviour in those coyotes.
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Thank you so much for your impassioned presentation on Sunday. I came away with a renewed respect for wildlife and some very practical information. You were obviously a hit and I hope you got out of Toronto in due course when all your fans finally melted away!
