Coyote Activity In Elmhurst: What To Do And What Not To Do

ELMHURST, IL — The sighting of coyotes in Elmhurst has been brought to the attention of the City of Elmhurst and the Elmhurst Police Department. According to the city, coyotes have been spotted in many neighborhoods and are part of the urban wildlife that inhabits North America. There are several steps that residents who encounter coyotes should take. If a coyote is sighted and appears aggressive or lingers in the area, residents should contact 911 and alert neighbors.

“If the animal is injured or aggressive, we would attempt to take action," Elmhurst Police Chief Michael Ruth said in a release. "If there is just a sighting, we would monitor the situation as coyotes generally do not like to get too close to people.”

The city said intentional and unintentional food sources can be a key factor in reducing close encounter with coyotes. The following actions can be taken to minimize encounters with coyotes and to protect domestic pets:

• If possible, keep garbage cans inside
• Keep barbeque grills clean
• Do not let pets run loose or be unattended
• Keep pet food and water dishes inside
• Do not feed a coyote
• Do not run from a coyote
• Repellents or fencing may help
• Report aggressive, fearless coyotes immediately
• Do not create conflict where it does not exist
• If you see a coyote in your neighborhood that appears aggressive or lingers, please call 911

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