A 16-year-old girl in Markham was taken to hospital on Thursday morning after being bitten by a coyote, according to York Regional Police. The incident occurred at approximately 8:15 a.m. in the area of Mingay and Bur Oak Avenues. Police reported that the girl sustained minor injuries and was treated at a local hospital.
City Response and Investigation
The City of Markham’s animal services team is actively investigating the incident in coordination with York Regional Police, with a continued focus on community safety, a city spokesperson said. The animal services team will patrol the area over the next few days and install additional signage to warn residents. It remains unclear whether the coyote approached the teen or if there was any prior interaction between the girl and the animal.
Public Awareness Campaign
The city is sharing information through its social media channels to raise awareness and provide residents with clear guidance on how to respond if they encounter a coyote. The messages include safety tips and contact information for reporting coyote sightings. The city has a comprehensive list of dos and don’ts regarding wild animals. When interacting with a coyote, the public is advised to make noise, yell, clap hands, stomp, and wave arms, but not to approach the animal. Carrying a whistle or noisemaker is recommended when walking in known habitat areas. Most importantly, residents are urged not to put out food for animals.
Fines for Feeding Wildlife
In Markham, there is a $615 fine for residents caught feeding wild animals. Neighbouring Vaughan imposes a $500 fine for making food items available to wild animals.
Regional Strategies for Coyote Management
Several communities in the Greater Toronto Area have implemented strategies to manage urban wildlife intrusions. Markham introduced its Coyote Response and Coexistence Strategy in November 2021. Halton Hills launched an online strategy guide titled Wildlife in Halton Hills: Coyotes in 2025. King City posted tips for safely interacting with urban wildlife during coyote pup season in February 2024. Vaughan introduced its Coyote Response and Coexistence Strategy in April 2022. These efforts aim to promote coexistence and reduce conflicts between humans and coyotes.
