Warnings About Clever Coyotes Encounters Even in New York

It has been a while since I have seen a coyote hanging around but they are definitely out there and not necessarily just in the woods. You often hear them more than you see them.

A few years back we had a few Coyotes that were living behind the radio station. Not really sure what happened to them. They were here one day and gone the next.

Dutchess County SPCA Puts Out Coyote Encounter Warning

Just this past week the Dutchess County SPCA released important pet information about coyotes for both people who live in urban areas and anyone who lives in areas with more open land.

SEE ALSO: New York State Stops Sullivan County Coyote Hunts

They want to alert neighbors and the community in general that with winter setting in coyotes are getting more aggressive for food. They also mentioned that reports of coyote sighting and attacks in the area were on an uptick. They go so far as to say that coyotes are clever and may engage in play with your pets or even you before they attack.

Coyotes are clever; they may use play behavior to lure loose dogs of all sizes into wooded areas where their pack waits in ambush. They can also outrun cats and have been known to wait days for a cat to descend from a tree, often with heartbreaking results. (Dutchess County SPCA via Facebook)

Why Do Coyotes Come Around Our Homes and Businesses

Coyotes are attracted to food sources. Never feed a coyote. Coyotes do not naturally flee from people. They often associate people with food therefore they may approach you if they think you have food or if you are acting like prey.

How to Handle a Coyote Encounter

Never run from a coyote. That is a prey move and likely it will result in the coyote mistaking you for something it can eat and in turn run after you. If you encounter a coyote stand your ground make noise and wave your arms.

Never let children or pets approach a coyotes this can lead to a coyote attack. If a coyote won't leave the NYS DEC recommends you throw sticks and rocks at it. If a coyote has become bold around you or your home you should call the police or your DEC regional office.

Pets and Children Are Easy Prey for Coyotes

Children and pets can both easily be victims of coyote attacks. It is important to make sure your children understand what to do if they see a coyote and never let them get to close.

The same goes for pets. Cat and small dogs are easy prey for a bold coyote. Some coyotes even lure your pet away from the property in order to lead it back to the pack to be dinner. Coyote attacks can be anytime of year so it is important to be aware all year.

Watch the behavior that this Arizona woman caught on tape in a park. Then imagine this happening in your yard. Apparently it is very common.

How Common is a Coyote Attack in New York

In New York State according to the NYS DEC it is much more likely to have an encounter with a domestic dog (650 people hospitalized on average per year) then to be attacked by a Coyote (nationwide only a handful) but the possibility is out there and you should be cautious if you live in an area prone to coyotes.

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