Officials are advising caution regarding coyotes in the vicinity of the University of Waterloo following an incident where a jogger was bitten by one of these animals last week. The incident occurred on November 12 at around 6 p.m. The university’s Special Constable Service received a report that a non-affiliated community member was bitten on school grounds while jogging along a pathway from Health Service Road to Ron Edyt Village. The jogger managed to fend off the coyote and escape safely.
The woman sought medical attention and was taken to the hospital for further treatment. Hospital staff notified public health authorities, while university officials informed the police and local humane society about the incident. In response, Region of Waterloo Public Health emphasized the importance of seeking immediate medical assistance and contacting public health if bitten by a wild animal, particularly due to the risk of rabies transmission.
Following the incident, a university staff member reported another coyote sighting, although there was no direct contact. The university highlighted its proximity to wooded areas shared with urban wildlife and the likelihood of increased sightings with winter approaching. The City of Waterloo advised individuals to maintain distance if encountering a coyote and provided safety guidelines, including staying calm, avoiding interaction or feeding, and making loud noises to deter the animals.
People are urged to keep their dogs on leashes, back away slowly if a coyote is present, and carry a flashlight for nighttime encounters. The city specified that reporting a coyote sighting is necessary only in situations posing immediate safety risks.