Coyote On A Brisk Sunday Stroll: Photo Of The Day

FREMONT, CA — Coyote sightings are up lately, particularly in Fremont, according to the Tri-City Animal Shelter and the Fremont Police Department.

Patch reader Debbie Hoskinson captured this image of a coyote Sunday afternoon as it jogged through the Eggers Drive neighborhood in Fremont.

"Over the last couple of days, there has been an increase in coyote sightings throughout Fremont," said police, adding that the uptick seemed to begin in early October.

Animal experts attributed the increase to coyotes roaming to escape smoke and fire.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife said coyotes are by nature fearful of humans, and warned residents to not feed them as such acts may change their behavior and could lead to deadly conflicts with pets or small children.

Authorities offered a few reminders to help locals keep the critters from visiting yards:

• Do not leave pets outside unattended.
• Do not leave pet food outside.
• Keep garbage in a secure container and only put it outside on the morning of pickup.
• Do not put any meat scraps in compost heaps.
• Pick up fallen fruit from underneath trees.
• Cut back brush around your property that might provide cover for coyotes or their prey.

Thanks for sharing the photo, Debbie!

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