EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ – East Brunswick Police this week said multiple sightings of coyotes have been reported and want residents to know not to panic, but at the same time, to use caution. Coyotes are sometimes confused with dogs and pose little danger to humans if unprovoked or healthy.
“This agency has received reports of Coyote sightings in the area of Ryder Lane and Tices Lane. Residents are urged to be mindful and vigilant at all times and should take caution in leaving their pets unattended,” EBPD said. “Coyotes by nature are wary of humans, and attacks are extremely rare.”
In the event that a resident observes a coyote acting aggressive or irregular, they should contact the East Brunswick Police Department immediately (Emergency – 911 / Non-Emergency – 732-390-6900).
The following guidelines from NJ Fish and Wildlife can help reduce the likelihood of conflicts with coyotes:
-Never feed a coyote. Deliberately feeding coyotes puts pets and other residents in the neighborhood at risk.
-Feeding pet cats and/or feral (wild) cats outdoors can attract coyotes. The coyotes feed on the pet food and also prey upon the cats.
-Put garbage in tightly closed containers that cannot be tipped over.
-Remove sources of water, especially in dry climates.
-Bring pets in at night.
-Put away bird feeders at night to avoid attracting rodents and other coyote prey.
-Provide secure enclosures for rabbits, poultry, and other farm
animals.
-Pick up fallen fruit and cover compost piles.
-Although extremely rare, coyotes have been known to attack humans. Parents should monitor their children, even in familiar surroundings, such as backyards.
-Install motion-sensitive lighting around the house.
-Clear brush and dense weeds from around dwellings – this reduces protective cover for coyotes and makes the area less attractive to rodents and rabbits. Coyotes, as well as other predators, are attracted to areas where rodents are concentrated like woodpiles.
-If coyotes are present, make sure they know they’re not welcome. Make loud noises, blast a canned air siren, or spray them with a garden hose.
For additional information on Coyotes, please go to the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife website at https://www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw/coyote_info.htm.
