Parks Canada Kills Third Coyote, Ends Search In Nova Scotia Park

Published Date

September 16, 2023

A file photo of a coyote taken in Cape Breton Highlands National Park in Nova Scotia.

Parks Canada Kills Third Coyote, Ends Search In Nova Scotia Park/Éric Le Bel, Parks Canada

Parks Canada has called off the search for aggressive coyotes in Cape Breton Highlands National Park after killing a third animal.

The operation was sparked by an incident last week in which a coyote bit a cyclist on the arm. “This action is unusual, and indicates the animal had been habituated and lost its natural fear of humans,” Parks Canada public relations and communications officer Adam Young said in a news release.

On Sept. 6, a cyclist in the Green Cove area was bitten by a coyote that crossed the Cabot Trail — a scenic highway — and gave chase. After dismounting, the cyclist tried to fend off the coyote and put the bicycle between themself and the animal but was bitten on the left forearm. Passing drivers stopped to help scare the coyote away, but it continued to be aggressive before leaving the area.

Then on Sept. 8, a coyote chased cyclists, motorcycles and cars on MacKenzie Mountain. Within an hour, that coyote was shot and killed by Parks Canada. On Sept. 11, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) shot and killed a coyote in the Green Cove area. Finally, a third coyote was euthanized this week as a result of several days of patrol and trapping efforts.

An undated file photo of a coyote in Cape Breton Highlands National Park/Parks Canada

“While we cannot be 100% certain that these are the same coyotes involved in the reported incidents, the likelihood is quite high,” Young said. “Parks Canada is confident in this assessment and believes the area to be safe, although visitors are asked, as always, to be cautious when enjoying the outdoors.”

Several hiking trails, look-offs and day use areas on the eastern side of the Nova Scotia park had been temporarily closed, but have reopened.

While this situation appears to be resolved, Parks Canada asks that any sightings of aggressive coyotes be reported to staff or by calling 1-877-852-3100.

Stories about:

Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Story Categories:

Support National Parks Traveler

Your support for the National Parks Traveler comes at a time when news organizations are finding it hard, if not impossible, to stay in business. Traveler's work is vital. For nearly two decades we've provided essential coverage of national parks and protected areas. With the Trump administration’s determination to downsize the federal government, and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum’s approach to public lands focused on energy exploration, it’s clear the Traveler will have much to cover in the months and years ahead. We know of no other news organization that provides such broad coverage of national parks and protected areas on a daily basis. Your support is greatly appreciated.

EIN: 26-2378789

Support Essential Coverage of Essential Places

A copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.

Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:

Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.

INN Member

The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.

Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks.

You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks