Coexistence is a mindset—one that means adapting our own actions to acknowledge that we are not the only species living here. It requires empathy toward those who do not speak our language or follow our laws. It demands that we learn about and respect the species around us in our more-than-human city.

Who would our wild neighbours vote for if they had the opportunity in the upcoming Ontario election? They want many of the same things we do: freedom from persecution, the ability to live in safe, clean environments, and the opportunity to raise their families in peace. If animals could vote, they certainly wouldn’t support what’s happening now.

As someone who spends a lot of time in parks, I witness my fair share of unfortunate incidents. One persistent problem I have observed for as long as I’ve been photographing wildlife is off-leash dogs running out of control.

When I encounter a coyote neighbor, it brightens my day. I feel fortunate to catch a glimpse of these elusive canids and to know they are out there in the fields, ravines, and forests, living their lives.

In early 2022 an succumbed to rodenticide poisoning, leaving her longtime mate to mourn for months—hooting all day until his voice cracked.

A video of the LDD infestation in High Park Toronto. https://youtu.be/2zo14UJj70k

Look here for future writing on nature, photography and cats. In the meantime please enjoy this photo of a Black and White warbler.