Wildlife Management Biologist Janine Stewart

Recently coyotes were spotted in the Winkler and St. Jean area.

Seeing coyotes is not uncommon during this time of year, as pups are generally born until late may.

"Coyotes are active throughout the year, they do tend to be more visible when they're mating, people often see them in February, March," said Janine Stewart, Wildlife Management Biologist.

"However, this time of year they're starting to raise their pups so you may see them out hunting for food to be able to feed their pups," she added.

Stewart encourages people to live with wildlife, but to take precautions. She added sightings of wildlife are generally not a cause for concern unless the animal is acting aggressive.

"Feed pets in doors," she advised. "Don't leave their food dishes out there because those odours will linger."

Stewart noted garbage and bird feeders can attract wildlife to your yard as well.

"If the seed is spilling on to the ground, animals can be attracted to that seed, but also the rodents that come there to feed on that seed will potentially attract coyotes."

She recommended putting away bird feeders from April to November, which is when bears are active on Manitoba landscape.

Other tips include walking pets on a leash and keeping pets indoors over night. Also, carrying a noise deterrent, such as pebbles in a canister can scare away animals. A walking stick can also work as a deterrent.

She says to be aware of your surroundings, especially during dusk and dawn when wildlife are active.

In terms of population control, Stewart says trappers in the province harvest between 3,000 - 8,000 coyotes a year during the winter months.