Edmonton 
Do you want to humanely scare away coyotes that are invading the urban parks and neighbourhoods of Edmonton? Then, apply to volunteer during Urban Coyote Intervention Program run by Edmonton Urban Coyote Project.
Edmonton Urban Coyote Project
Urban Coyote Intervention Program practices aversive conditioning, which is a humane way to manage bold, urban coyotes and uses a deterrent or negative stimuli to discourage undesirable behaviour. It is also a cost-effective way to reduce conflict with urban coyotes in Edmonton and increase opportunities for coexistence. Studies conducted in the city show that aversive conditioning practised by Edmonton Urban Coyote Project was effective.
The aversive conditioning method followed by Edmonton Urban Coyote Project includes shouting and running towards the coyotes and throwing modified weighted tennis balls in the animal’s direction. The tennis balls fitted with streamers to attract coyotes’ attention are weighted by adding sand to improve throwing accuracy.
If you are selected to volunteer with the organisation, your need to strictly follow the rules of aversive conditioning including throwing tennis balls in the animal’s direction only if the coyote is spotted in residential neighbourhoods during daylight and within 40 m of your location. You will have to record “the time, location, behaviour of animals (e.g. moving or stationary), and context (e.g. presence of attractants, presence of vulnerable individuals).” You are also required to retrieve the balls to avoid leaving it for coyotes to investigate later.
Urban Coyote Intervention Program begins on January 15, 2022, and runs until May of this year.
More Information is available here.
