Users across social media outlets are showing concern by the amount that are popping up in the area, however it's no more than usual

As the spring melt occurs, you'll find more coyotes appearing in Waterloo Region.

Users across social media outlets are showing concern by the amount that are popping up in the area, however it's no more than usual.

That's according to Niall Lobley, Director of Parks and Cemeteries with the City of Kitchener.

Who said if you do see a coyote in the city, just enjoy the view.

"That's urban wildlife on your doorstep," said Lobley. "If it's some distance away from you, you don't need to worry. It will probably just look at you then wander off. So I would just enjoy that sighting."

Pet owners are of course advised to take precautions.

However, if you find that you or your pet feel threatened, the City of Kitchener does have some recommendations.

Keep dogs on a leash and don't leave them unattended as coyotes prey mainly on small mammals.

Keep dogs inside at night and keep pet food indoors.

Keep dogs inside at night and keep pet food indoors. Clean up after dogs as coyotes are attracted to dog feces.

Clean up after dogs as coyotes are attracted to dog feces. If they encounter a coyote while out for a walk they should stand still and wave their arms, then back away slowly. Don't run as that can bring out their chase instinct.

If they encounter a coyote while out for a walk they should stand still and wave their arms, then back away slowly. Don't run as that can bring out their chase instinct. If they are concerned that a coyote is paying too much attention to a small dog or child, pick them up and begin making loud noises and/or throwing objects toward (but not at) the coyote to scare it away.

If you're on a rural property, Lobley says unfortunately, coyotes can become a nuisance.

"We are aware that coyotes on farm properties can cross that line. The most humane way of removing that problem is to do it very quickly. So it is lethal. There's no way of trapping coyotes and relocating them. Ontario is well populated with coyotes and so it's dispatching them in the quickest way you can."