Human-Wildlife Conflict Management Program.
In April 2010, the Department of Lands and Forestry implemented a program to deal with aggressive coyotes which threaten human safety. Since then, the department has investigated 104 reports of aggressive coyotes of which 19 situations required a response. A total of 30 coyotes have been removed as a result of trapping effort around these aggressive incidents.
A Human-Wildlife Conflict Biologist position was staffed on July 1, 2010 and DNR staff have participated in over 100 educational events and other interactions related to aggressive coyotes and other human-wildlife conflict issues. The development of various educational materials directed at the general public and schools is underway. This information should be available sometime before the end of March 2011.
Thirteen experienced coyote trappers were selected and provided specialized training in October, 2010 to enable them to more effectively deal with situations where aggressive coyotes must be removed to protect human safety.
The Pelt Incentive Program started October 15, 2010 with the beginning of the furharvesting season. The program provides $20 per pelt sent to market by licenced harvesters. Rather than reduce populations, this program is intended to increase hunting and trapping pressure targeting coyotes. The outcome sought from this aspect of our program is to increase wariness and avoidance of humans by coyotes. As of January 15, 2011 a total of 838 coyote pelts had been shipped to market. This represents a 51 per cent increase compared to the same time period last season (554 pelts).
Although the trapping season ends March 31, final numbers of pelts shipped to market under the incentive program will not be available until later in the spring. Once these numbers are tabulated the Department of Lands and Forestry will be able to evaluate the effectiveness of this program in increasing harvesting activities directed toward coyotes.
While many remain concerned about coyotes, Nova Scotians should still take advantage of the excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation that the province has to offer.