A toddler was bitten by a coyote while walking with his parents in a public field near the intersection of Coronation Road and Rossland Road in Whitby, Ontario, on June 22, 2026. Durham Regional Police were called to the scene after the animal attacked the child.
Police officers arrived, secured the area and provided assistance to the family. The toddler received medical attention following the bite, and the parents were treated for shock. The coyote was later located and taken into custody by officers.
Durham Regional Police are investigating the incident and have asked residents to keep children and pets under close supervision when in areas where coyotes have been reported. Officers noted that the animal displayed aggressive behavior toward the child, prompting the need for immediate intervention.
The child was taken to a nearby hospital where medical staff treated the bite wound and assessed the risk of infection. After treatment, the family returned home.
The event occurs amid a noticeable increase in coyote sightings and encounters throughout the Greater Toronto Area. Wildlife officials have reported a rise in reports of coyotes in urban parks and residential neighborhoods over recent months, prompting public advisories on how to reduce attractants and avoid close contact with the animals.
Durham Regional Police have classified the case as a wildlife incident and are coordinating with local animal control to evaluate the health of the captured coyote. The animal will be examined for rabies and other diseases before a final decision on its disposition is made.
Authorities continue to monitor coyote activity in the region and will update the public as the investigation progresses. No further injuries were reported at the time of the police report.