During certain months of the year, Village officials begin to receive calls from residents regarding the local coyote population. Coyote sightings can increase during winter months, as the animals cover greater distances in search of food. Callers are typically seeking suggestions for handling sightings and encounters. Following is a synopsis of information provided by the Wisconsin DNR, the UW Extension and the Cook County, Illinois, Coyote Project.

GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT COYOTES
While coyotes prefer areas that offer adequate protection, such as edges of wooded and brushy areas, they can also be found near fields, parks, rivers, and other areas with natural vegetation. This includes residential areas. While coyotes are not typically aggressive towards humans, in areas where they are not hunted or trapped (residential areas), they may not flee immediately when seeing a human.

When hungry or protecting young or a perceived territory, coyotes may become less fearful. Though coyotes are primarily nocturnal animals, they are often times seen during daylight hours. Coyotes may also carry parasites such as: ticks, fleas, lice, mites, flatworms and roundworms. While coyotes seldom prey on domestic animals, there have been reports of coyotes taking small pets. Their main sources of food are: rodents, rabbits, insects, fruits, and other vegetative matter.

HOW TO REACT TO A COYOTE
If you see a coyote, you should keep your distance from the animal. If you feel a coyote is too close, try the following:

• turn on outside lights
• make loud noises, or
• toss a small object in the direction of the coyote (not at the coyote)

Taking one or more of these actions should cause the animal to flee.

To avoid conflicts with the animal and to protect pets:

• do not feed a coyote
• do not run from a coyote
• make loud noises/wave your arms
• do not leave small children outside unattended
• do not leave small pets outside unattended, especially at night when coyotes are most active
• keep pet food indoors
• keep your pet’s vaccinations up to date
• remove bird feeders that may attract rodents and small mammals on which coyotes regularly prey
• secure residential garbage
• report aggressive or fearless coyotes to the Police Department at 694.7353

Fencing and motion-sensored outdoor lighting may also help to deter coyotes.

When coyotes become more aggressive and less intimidated by humans or if a coyote takes a small household pet, such as a cat, you may want to consider contacting a wildlife removal professional for assistance. You can find more information about coyotes, at the Department of Natural Resources website here.