Living with Coyotes:How we can improve our relationship with our wild neighbours

No animal species has received more publicity in Vancouver since 2020 than coyotes. From the attacks on humans in Stanley Park in 2020-2021 to the recent viral footage showing coyote pups in a suburban yard, they are frequently in the news and on our minds, but how much do we really know about them? More importantly, how much do we know about how to get along with them? This presentation will begin with an introduction to coyote biology before shifting to an in-depth discussion about how to avoid conflicts with coyotes in the city. We will discuss (1) the effects of wildlife feeding by humans, (2) best practices for keeping pets safe, (3) what to do when you see a coyote, (4) lessons learned from the attacks in Stanley Park, and more. All you need to bring is an open mind and any questions you have about coyotes!

Nathan Lewis' natural fascination with animals led him to begin a career in wildlife research, through which he has studied several species, from snails to squirrels, and now coyotes. He is now doing a PhD at UBC with the Department of Zoology and recently led a research project focused on determining what likely contributed to the coyote attacks on humans in Stanley Park in 2020-2021. He is currently working on several other coyote-focused projects, both in Vancouver and across North America. Researching such a charismatic but controversial species has helped him realize the importance of working with the community to improve our collective understanding of how to appreciate wildlife while keeping ourselves and the wildlife safe.

Follow Nathan's photography and education-based instagram account (@fieldnotesbynathan), where he shares photos, fun facts, and tips for how to avoid negative interactions with all sorts of animals.