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Aversive Conditioning is a technique used by wildlife managers to make an animal (in this case, coyotes) change a bad behaviour by associating it with something unpleasant. The goal here is to make them more "wary", or cautious, of people.
Training
As part of your training, you should practice throwing weighted tennis balls at coyote-sized objects (about 80 cm long). Weighted tennis balls will be provided for up to 12 volunteers in each treatment neighbourhood.
Volunteers in treatment neighborhoods will conduct the steps for observations as described in "Observe coyotes" and implement Aversive Conditioning for any coyote that permits approach to within 40 m. Practice using the distance estimation tool to estimate distances to within 10 m for coyote-sized objects that are between 10 and 60 m away.
Conducting Aversive Conditioning
DoConduct Aversive Conditioning if:
- The coyote is in public locations in residential neighbourhoods during daylight. Any coyote in a residential area during daylight should be chased with maximum intensity. Retrieve the tennis ball(s) and avoid leaving it for coyotes to investigate later. |
Don'tConduct Aversive Conditioning if:
- There is contraindicated circumstances (see maintaining safe conditions); - The coyote is in a natural area, including those that border residential areas. Avoid chasing coyotes directly into roads with moving vehicles or on to private property. |
If a coyote has not fled when you are within 40 m of it and conditions are appropriate, implement Aversive Conditioning by:
- Running directly towards the coyote;
- Shouting and / or shaking a can of coins;
- Throwing weighted tennis balls with tails of flagging tape at the coyote.
Hazing will continue as long as possible or until the coyote either leaves the area or takes cover in a natural area with trees and shrubs.
- Running directly towards the coyote;
- Shouting and / or shaking a can of coins;
- Throwing weighted tennis balls with tails of flagging tape at the coyote.
Hazing will continue as long as possible or until the coyote either leaves the area or takes cover in a natural area with trees and shrubs.
Recording
After the Aversive Conditioning event, record in our online form:
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The response and speed of coyote travel
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The direction in which the coyote retreated (i.e. as an angle relative to your own approach)
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Your own hazing actions and the behaviour of other people nearby
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Search the area for attractants including both food and potential shelter and, if appropriate, add this information to our online form.
