As part of the overall strategy to address concerns about nuisance coyotes in Prince Edward Island, the coyote hunting season is being extended from February 28 to March 16.
Minister of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Environment Chester Gillan announced the season extension Wednesday.
"This is simply one measure. We will continue to provide advice to help Islanders prevent problems with coyotes while, at the same time, ensuring we have a system in place to respond quickly when we do encounter problem coyotes," said Minister Gillan.
Islanders experiencing problems with coyotes or other nuisance animals can call the toll-free nuisance wildlife hotline at 1-866-368-4683.
According to the protocol the department has established, Minister Gillan said a Conservation Officer will assess the situation. If a coyote is persisting in an area, the officer will identify what may be attracting the animal, such as open dumpsters, dead livestock or intentional feeding, and take appropriate action. That may include providing advice to local residents to eliminate what is attracting the animal. If the coyote remains in the area, all efforts will be made to remove it using appropriate means including trapping and/or tranquillizing.
Minister Gillan said his department is continuing to compile a list of skilled trappers across the province who will respond to complaints about problem coyotes. The department offered a training session on coyote trapping late last summer and another session is planned for April. The Minister noted several trappers took advantage of the first training session, and many others have expressed an interest in the April session.
"While I recognize there is a great deal of interest in coyotes in Prince Edward Island, it's important to remember that most of these animals never come within sight of humans," said Minister Gillan. "However, there are ‘problem coyotes' and my department will help Islanders deal with those animals."