Residents who encounter wild animals on their property in the City of Greater Sudbury have a number of agencies to call for assistance.
Coyotes are a particular concern for farmers at this time of year. Residents of rural areas are reminded that municipal bylaws prohibit the use of firearms within the City of Greater Sudbury unless a wild animal poses an immediate threat.
Farmers who are forced to shoot a coyote or other wild animals are asked to phone the Canadian Food Inspection Agency at 1-800-461-3213. The agency will take samples of the dead animal for testing purposes.
Farmers may be compensated for livestock which are injured or killed by a wild animal under the Livestock and Honeybee Protection Act. Contact the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food toll-free at 1-800-461-6132 or 705-594-2312.
The Ministry of Natural Resources will investigate concerns of wild animals on private property. Citizens are asked to phone 1-800-667-1940.
In a life-threatening emergency situation, citizens are asked to contact the Greater Sudbury Police at 675-9171 or by dialing 9-1-1.
Citizens who suspect they have been in contact with a rabid animal are asked to phone the Sudbury and District Health Unit at 522-9200. The Health Unit works with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency to identify and track sources of rabies.