On multiple occasions this month, wild coyotes have been spotted in Rye Brook, in the vicinity of Crawford Park and the Hilton Westchester. The animals were reportedly last spotted twice, between approximately 11 and 11:30 p.m. running across Lincoln Avenue.
Reportedly, the coyotes were prowling around wooded areas at each location on separate occasions. It is not clear whether there is one or multiple coyotes. Officials have been notified of the wild animals.
Police caution that coyotes should never be fed, and if a coyote is spotted, one should be aggressive with their behavior, making loud noises, waving arms and throwing sticks and stones to seem like a greater predator.
Pets should not be allowed to run free, and they should never be fed outside, as the food may attract coyotes. Homeowners should also eliminate the availability of bird seed. According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, coyotes are attracted to the concentration of birds and rodents that come to feeders. If one does feed birds, waste seed and spillage should be cleaned.
According to police, fencing a yard may deter coyotes, and fences should be tight to the ground, extending six inches below the ground level, and brush and tall grass should be removed from properties to reduce protective cover for the animal. Officials noted that regulated hunting and trapping increases the “fear” coyotes have toward people.
Other information regarding the regulation of coyotes in the area is available from the D.E.C.
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