RIVERSIDE SOUTH – An aggressive coyote recently attacking the residents of Riverside South has been killed by Ottawa police.

“Since Friday, June 5, city Bylaw and Regulatory Services (BLRS) and the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) received numerous calls in regards to coyote sightings and aggressive coyote interactions in the Riverside South area,” the OPS released in a statement today (June 12). “Since then, Ottawa police officers have been doing proactive patrols in the area in order to protect the public.”

Early this morning, a coyote was spotted prowling around houses near Shoreline Drive and Wild Shore Crescent off of Earl Armstrong Road.

“The coyote initially came at an officer, but they were able to chase it away from the residences using a police cruiser,” the OPS said. “Officers then located the same coyote in the Claudette Cain Park where they had no choice but to put it down safely.”

BLRS attended to gather information about the animal and to remove it for testing.

“While coyotes are not typically aggressive, BLRS continues work with a wildlife specialist to monitor coyote activity in the area,” the OPS said. “Residents of the area are asked to remain vigilant and to avoid wooded areas, particularly after dark.”

Residents are asked to take the following precautions when encountering aggressive wild animals:

•       Never approach or touch the animal
•       Do not turn your back on the animal or run from it
•       Back away while remaining calm
•       Stand tall, wave your hands and make lots of noise
•       Carry a flashlight while walking at night

“If a wild animal is posing an immediate threat to public safety, or following residents’ movements, 911 should be contacted,” the OPS said. “If a wild animal scratches or bites resulting in skin breakage, residents should also contact Ottawa Public Health (or 311 after hours) to speak with a Public Health Inspector. General sightings of coyotes should be reported to 311, so that times and locations where coyotes are being sighted can be tracked.”