Medina Police warn of coyotes in area

Published 5:51 pm Monday, November 16, 2009

Medina Police are warning residents of coyote sightings in the area. Coyotes are very adaptable animals and as such can successfully survive in suburban areas, the police said in a recent news release.

The police offered a few tips for living with coyotes:

Avoid providing food sources by bringing pet food inside and securing garbage.

Keep pets indoors, especially from dusk to dawn.

Never feed coyotes, as this may lead to aggressive behavior.

Prevent buildup of food under bird feeders – coyotes are attracted to the food itself, and to the rodents that come to the feeders.

If you are confronted with a coyote, pickup small children and pets immediately, then act aggressively by waving your arms, throwing stones, and shouting. Let them know you are not prey.

For further information on living with coyotes, visit: http://wdfw.wa.gov/wlm/living/coyotes.htm