PSA from NPD: Beware coyotes sighted in Norwood

The Norwood Police Department would like to make citizens aware of several coyote sightings in Norwood. Recently, coyotes have been spotted in the area of Waterworks Park and Norwood Public Works at the dead end of Harris Ave. There have been no reports of any attacks on people or pets. Residents are urged to keep an extra watch on their pets, especially residents living near wooded areas. The city is currently working on a plan to eradicate this problem. Anyone spotting a coyote should contact the Norwood Police Department at 458-4520.

Lt. Tom Williams

Norwood Police Department

Following are recommendations for residents and pet owners from this New York State government website:

Coyotes are seen in both developed and rural areas. Homeowners should take sensible precautions to avoid attracting coyotes to their property. As highlighted in the April 2005 issue of the New York State Conservationist, DEC has issued the following recommendations to reduce the chances for a negative encounter with a coyote:

1. Never feed or attempt to get close to a coyote.
2. Keep pets under control, and be sure not to leave them out at night. Coyotes may kill or injure a pet, especially small dogs and cats. Walk your dog on a leash and accompany your pet outside, especially at night. Provide secure shelters for poultry, rabbits, and other vulnerable animals.
3. Control other sources of food that may attract a coyote-keep your trash secure and compost bins covered; closely monitor your bird feeders to ensure that they are not attracting other wildlife, and keep dog and cat food bowls inside. Coyotes that rely on wild food sources remain wild and wary of people.
4. Coyotes like areas where they can hide, yet still be near food. You can help by thinning brushy areas in your yard and closing off crawl spaces. Coyotes may use areas under buildings for resting or raising young.
5. If others in your neighborhood are attracting coyotes, tell them about the hazards posed by coyotes and ask them to take the measures recommended above.
6. Be Cautious and Sensible
7. People should never try to get close to coyotes. Any coyote that shows unusual boldness or acts tame should be avoided. Coyote attacks directed toward people have occurred in the western United States. However, aggressive coyote behavior has also been reported in the eastern United States and in New York State.