Coyote Sightings

Recently, there has been an uptick in coyote sightings in Columbia Heights and surrounding metro cities. Generally, coyotes will avoid humans, but stay alert, especially if you own a cat or small dog. If you do have a close encounter with a coyote, report it to 911. Never feed coyotes.

According to the Minnesota DNR, most coyotes avoid people and domestic animals, but cats and smaller dogs are at some risk if left unsupervised. More often, coyotes will attack sheep, turkeys, calves, and rabbits. They may also raid garbage cans. While healthy wild coyotes avoid people, rare incidents have been reported in Minnesota and other states of aggression. Experts believe these incidents are more likely after a coyote has become accustomed to humans or after being fed by humans. 

If you are concerned about the presence of coyotes where you live, consider the following do's and don'ts:

DO:

• secure all garbage containers, wildlife feeders, and other food sources to prevent coyote access
• supervise cats and small dogs when outside
• vaccinate all pets for rabies, distemper, parvo, and other diseases, as recommended by a veterinarian
• consider installing coyote-proof fencing
• intimidate (by shouting, waving arms, etc.) any coyotes that do not immediately run from people

DON'T:

• feed coyotes
• leave pet food outside
• allow cats and small dogs outside unattended

Additional Information: 

• Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR): Urban Coyotes
• Humane Society of the U.S Coyote Hazing Guidelines (PDF)

<a href="http://columbiaheightsmn.gov/departments/police/information/coyotes.php">Your Link Name</a>