Coyote sightings in Medina

Published 9:19 am Friday, October 14, 2011

The Medina Police Department has recently received numerous calls regarding coyote sightings. Coyotes are considered very adaptable animals and can successfully survive in suburban areas.

According to the Department of Fish and Wildlife, the one and only reason coyotes are on the prowl is to search for food. Small dogs, cats, pet food and unsecured garbage cans are favorite foods for coyotes.

Since the use of leg hold trapping is prohibited in Washington and firearm discharge is illegal, managing coyotes depends on managing people and their practices, police officials say.

Here are some tips:

Do not feed coyotes.

Walk pets on a leash.

Supervise small pets and children and keep cats inside, especially from dusk to dawn.

Secure garbage, compost and pet foods. Make sure lids are tight, feed pets inside, pick up fallen fruit and prevent bird feeders from attracting rodents. Coyotes are attracted to bird seed as well as the rodents that come to the bird feeder.

“Haze” coyotes near homes and community spaces. If a person is confronted with a coyote, pick up small children and pets immediately, then act aggressively by waving your arms, throwing stones, and shouting. Let them know you are not prey.

Talk to your Neighbors and ask them to remove any attractants.