Exploring the Balance of Nature and City Life Through Wildlife Photography and Advocacy
In a world where urban sprawl continually encroaches on natural habitats, wildlife photographer Andrew Interisano stands at the intersection of city and wilderness, capturing moments that tell a larger story of coexistence. After a personal family incident involving a coyote attack on his brother’s dog, Interisano found himself uniquely positioned to understand both sides of human-wildlife conflict. Through his stunning photography and advocacy work, particularly focused on urban coyotes in the Greater Toronto Area, he bridges the gap between scientific understanding and public perception. Brooke sat down with Andrew for an interview about his work, where Interisano shares his journey from advertising professional to passionate wildlife photographer, offering insights on coyote behavior, urban adaptation, and how thoughtful storytelling can transform our relationship with the wild spaces and creatures that continue to thrive alongside our concrete jungles.
Can you tell us a little about yourself and how you became interested in wildlife photography?
Funnily enough, the coyotes found me first. They’re quite prevalent in southern Ontario, and I’ve had the fortune of experiencing some incredible encounters with them in the GTA [Greater Toronto Area] and the Niagara region.
My focus on coyote coexistence really took shape after my brother’s small dog, Gordie, was attacked by a coyote during a morning walk near my parents’ home in Niagara-on-the-Lake. It was a terrifying and traumatic experience for my brother, and his immediate reaction was anger and hatred toward the coyote. At the time, I struggled to understand those emotions, as I’ve always been “team wildlife.” Looking back, I realize I lacked empathy for my brother’s perspective. That experience made me recognize how important it is not just to educate the public but also to consider how we deliver that message—there has to be empathy for both coyotes and people.
This is why I believe my image is so powerful. It represents both the light and dark aspects of nature—there is beauty and danger, but ultimately, there is balance to be achieved.
How have coyotes managed to adapt so successfully to city life?
Coyotes are incredibly intelligent and resourceful animals. They adapt in numerous ways, including diet, pack size, and reproduction rates. It also helps that they have no natural predators in most urban areas—aside from humans, of course.
What are some common misconceptions people have about urban coyotes?
One of the biggest myths I’ve heard is that coyotes intentionally lure dogs away from their owners to ambush and kill them. There is no scientific evidence to support this. That misconception likely stems from misinterpreted observations of coyote behavior.
Coyotes can be curious and even playful with larger pet dogs. However, they are also fiercely territorial. If a dog misinterprets a coyote’s behavior and follows it back to a den, that can lead to a defensive attack.
What are the biggest challenges in human-coyote coexistence today?
It depends on the context. The challenges look very different for a farmer compared to an urban city dweller. But ultimately, I believe it comes down to public education. No matter who you are, a willingness to learn about coyote science, behaviour, and their ecological role can help protect people, pets, livestock, and, of course, coyotes themselves.
How can people minimize conflicts with coyotes in their neighborhoods?
- Avoid feeding them, whether intentionally or unintentionally (e.g., secure garbage properly on pick-up days).
- Hazing and aversion techniques—using loud noises or assertive body language—can safely deter coyotes and reinforce their natural wariness of humans.
- For pet owners: Always keep pets leashed. For small dogs, “coyote vests” are an option—they may look a bit silly, but they’re effective.
- Advocacy: Contact your local municipal representatives and urge them to create an action plan for coexistence. Organizations like Coyote Watch Canada have developed Canid Response Strategies to assist municipalities with prevention, education, investigation, and enforcement.
What role do policies and city planning play in mitigating human-wildlife conflict?
It varies by location, but cities must take proper steps—such as conducting public consultations and environmental assessments—before beginning development projects. Unfortunately, in Toronto, we’re currently witnessing the consequences of inadequate planning in real time.
Have you seen any cities successfully implement coyote coexistence strategies?
Yes! Cities like Vancouver, Chicago, Denver, and Toronto have all implemented science-based programs emphasizing public education, deterrence, and habitat management rather than lethal control. These initiatives focus on reducing human-coyote conflicts by discouraging feeding, securing attractants like garbage and pet food, and teaching residents how to safely haze bolder coyotes.
By prioritizing prevention over eradication, these programs have successfully minimized conflicts while allowing coyotes to maintain their natural role in the urban ecosystem. Coyote Watch Canada has also recently released a framework for municipalities looking to develop coexistence strategies.
How does public perception of coyotes influence conservation efforts?
Public perception is a huge factor. If people understand the science—especially the nuances and limitations of coyote management—our chances of achieving coexistence increase significantly. I hope in this way, public education can help drive municipal policy and planning, and hopefully prevent human-coyote conflict at the roots of the matter.
What role do photographers and storytellers play in wildlife conservation?
Storytelling is one of the most powerful tools for driving change. When delivered effectively, it has the ability to move people—both emotionally and intellectually—and can ultimately inspire action. The science is crucial, but without compelling storytelling, facts alone can fall flat.
Are there any resources you recommend for people who want to learn more about urban coyotes and coexistence strategies?
If you don’t know where to start, there are many fantastic organizations leading the charge in North America, including:
Be sure to look for regional organizations as well!
For those interested in the science, I recommend reading:
- Frederick F. Knowlton’s studies on population mechanics and depredation control
- Eric M. Gese’s research on behavioral ecology in Yellowstone coyotes
- Guy E. Connolly’s studies on the effects of population control dynamics
What’s next for you in your photography and conservation efforts?
I’d love for you to follow me on Instagram at @theotterbiography, but more importantly, educate yourself about your city and its surrounding ecosystems.
There’s a tendency to view cities as separate from nature, but this is still planet Earth. Understanding the environment you live in isn’t just a responsibility—it’s also a huge opportunity to appreciate and coexist with the wildlife around you.
Sources:
- https://www.coyotewatchcanada.com/site/home
- https://projectcoyote.org/
- https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/animals-pets/wildlife-in-the-city/coyotes/
- https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/urban-coyotes.aspx
- https://stanleyparkecology.ca/ecology/co-existing-with-coyotes/
- https://urbancoyoteresearch.com/
- https://denver.prelive.opencities.com/files/assets/public/v/1/parks-and-recreation/documents/urban-coyote-information.pdf
