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Parks Canada Kills Third Coyote, Ends Search In Nova Scotia Park

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By NPT Staff - September 16th, 2023
A file photo of a coyote taken in Cape Breton Highlands National Park in Nova Scotia.

Parks Canada Kills Third Coyote, Ends Search In Nova Scotia Park/Éric Le Bel, Parks Canada

Parks Canada has called off the search for aggressive coyotes in Cape Breton Highlands National Park after killing a third animal.

The operation was sparked by an incident last week in which a coyote bit a cyclist on the arm. “This action is unusual, and indicates the animal had been habituated and lost its natural fear of humans,” Parks Canada public relations and communications officer Adam Young said in a news release.

On Sept. 6, a cyclist in the Green Cove area was bitten by a coyote that crossed the Cabot Trail — a scenic highway — and gave chase. After dismounting, the cyclist tried to fend off the coyote and put the bicycle between themself and the animal but was bitten on the left forearm. Passing drivers stopped to help scare the coyote away, but it continued to be aggressive before leaving the area.

Then on Sept. 8, a coyote chased cyclists, motorcycles and cars on MacKenzie Mountain. Within an hour, that coyote was shot and killed by Parks Canada. On Sept. 11, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) shot and killed a coyote in the Green Cove area. Finally, a third coyote was euthanized this week as a result of several days of patrol and trapping efforts.

An undated file photo of a coyote in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

An undated file photo of a coyote in Cape Breton Highlands National Park/Parks Canada

“While we cannot be 100% certain that these are the same coyotes involved in the reported incidents, the likelihood is quite high,” Young said. “Parks Canada is confident in this assessment and believes the area to be safe, although visitors are asked, as always, to be cautious when enjoying the outdoors.”

Several hiking trails, look-offs and day use areas on the eastern side of the Nova Scotia park had been temporarily closed, but have reopened.

While this situation appears to be resolved, Parks Canada asks that any sightings of aggressive coyotes be reported to staff or by calling 1-877-852-3100.

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