Durham Regional Police have issued a public warning after a series of coyote incidents in Whitby, including an attack that sent a three-year-old boy to hospital. The boy was bitten on Monday evening in the area of Coronation and Rossland Roads and remains in stable condition, according to Whitby regional councillor and mayoral candidate Chris Leahy.
Police warning and recent incidents
In a statement on their X account Tuesday, Durham police urged pedestrians and pet owners to exercise caution in public spaces, especially when accompanied by small children or pets. Coyotes are most active during early morning and evening hours. Authorities advised reporting any aggressive or unusual coyote behaviour, and to call 911 if there is an immediate threat to public safety.
This latest attack follows a previous incident on May 15, when an eight-year-old child was bitten by a coyote at a playground at Jack Miner Public School. That attack, along with Monday's event, has heightened concerns among residents and local officials.
Leahy's call for action
Chris Leahy, who is running for mayor of Whitby, is now calling for a comprehensive Coyote Response Policy. He wants the Town of Whitby, local school boards, Durham Regional Police, animal services, and school councils to collaborate on coyote safety education sessions for students when classes resume in September.
“Parents should not have to worry about their children being at risk while walking to school or playing outside,” Leahy said in a statement. “Education is one of the most effective tools we have to reduce dangerous encounters and ensure children know how to react if they encounter a coyote.”
Leahy emphasized that planning should begin over the summer so that information sessions can be ready in every public and Catholic elementary school by September. He stated that if elected mayor, he would introduce a Coyote Response Policy to coordinate efforts and establish a clear, community-wide response to coyote activity. The policy would focus on prevention, public education, reporting protocols, and coordinated responses to aggressive coyote behaviour.
“Our children need practical information on how to stay safe,” Leahy added. “Simple coyote aversion techniques — such as standing tall, making noise, never running away and reporting sightings — can make a significant difference. We need to ensure every child and every parent receives that information.”
Leahy described the recent incidents as wake-up calls for the municipality. “We cannot wait until another child is injured,” he said. “By bringing schools, parents, police and animal services together, Whitby can develop a proactive strategy that protects residents while promoting responsible coexistence with wildlife.”
