Coyotes drive away dog walkers

Dog owners who used to walk their pets at Calgary'sNose Hill Park say coyotes have driven them away.

Part of the large green space inthe city's northwestis designated as an off-leash area, but after a small dog was killed by coyotes there last week, many pet owners are steering clear.

"I pick up dogs from surrounding Nose Hill Park - like say Coventry Hills, Harvest Hills and the dog owners have requested I don't take them to Nose Hill Park," said professional dog walker Susan Smith.

Last month Melanie Coulter was with a friend at Nose Hill Park when coyotes seemed to be trying to lure their two dogs to chase them, she said.

"So now I am less inclined to use Nose Hill on my own. AndI used to go there all the time, and have seen coyotes there in the past," she said.

But coyote encounters have not become more frequent, despite anecdotal evidence that may suggest otherwise, according to Alberta Fish and Wildlife officer Phil Marasco.

However at this time of year, the mature animals are still protecting their pups, and see dogs as a threat.

"They are competition they're going to try to drive that dog away, they're going to make it uncomfortable for him to be there assert their territory," he said.

Owners should always keep small dogs close to them or on a leash and owners should carry pepper spray, he added.