Photo: File photo

Michael Biron and Eden Wolff are keeping a close eye out for what they fear is a rogue coyote.

The couple live near Heritage Park in Vernon and have spotted the lone coyote running through yards in the middle of the day.

Biron said neighbours have said the coyote has killed family cats.

“We hear the coyotes up on the hill behind Davison's (Orchard) and that's kind of normal,” said Biron, adding the couple spent many years living in California and have had interaction with coyotes in the past.

“Most of their activities are a dusk to dawn sort of thing, but this one coyote is out in the middle of the day, just cruising around by itself, and that seems like odd behaviour. The theory is it might be exiled from the pack.

“This doesn't feel like normal (behaviour), in the middle of the day cruising through the neighbourhood, and getting in to backyards, it seem a little odd.”

Biron said they are concerned to walk their small dogs in the area, and referred to a recent coyote incident where the wild animal attacked a pug only a few meters away from a person.

Wolff said they have reached out to the Conservation Officer Service several times about the coyote.

“This coyote needs to be removed. Our animals are not safe until it is gone,” said Wolff, adding she is disappointed by the response from the COS and what she called a lack of action on their part.

The couple have also contacted local wildlife expert Pete Wise about the situation.

Castanet has reached out to the COS and Wise for comment.

According to the provincial website, If a wolf or coyote approaches you:

• Make yourself look as large as possible - if sitting, stand for example.
• Wave your arms and throw objects at the wolf or coyote.
• Shout at the wolf or coyote in a loud aggressive voice.
• If the wolf or coyote continues to approach don't run or turn your back. Continue to exaggerate the above gestures and slowly move to safety.