Don't Feed The Coyotes: Orland Park Animal Control

ORLAND PARK, IL —As the coyote population in Orland Park and surrounding communities grows due to them having no natural predators, Orland Park Police Animal Control Officer Steve Stronk has provided a few tips for people who may be unsure of how to deal with the animal that can often come across as intimidating.

First, it's not necessary to call police if you just see a coyote. Do call though if they appear to be injured or are attacking a human or pet.

But Stronk also stresses that humans should never feed coyotes. It's actually illegal to ground feed any wild animal in Orland Park, he said.

"The Police Department knows of Orland Park residents who despite our repeated warnings continue to feed coyotes," Stronk said. "This is one of the reasons why coyotes are losing their fear of humans."

Coyotes will be more visible during the fall as they begin to prepare for winter by fueling up on the sugar from fruit, proteins from prey and fats from seeds and nuts, Stronk said in a news release sent by the village of Orland Park. They can be spotted in packs of as many as eight.

If you encounter a coyote up close, do not run from it or take your eyes off of it.

"If you run, you could engage a predatory instinct and the coyote could give chase," Stronk said. "Residents who encounter coyotes should yell, scream and wave their arms, making themselves look larger than they actually are.

"If that doesn't work, throw whatever is handy at the coyote or carry an air horn like boaters use... An air horn should make them leave in a hurry."

Also, never leave your dog or cat outside unattended and always carry a cell phone while walking the dog to call for help if needed.

And almost as important as not feeding them directly is not feeding birds in an area where coyotes have been spotted.

"Most coyotes feed on rabbits and mice but they'll never pass up a free meal," Stronk said. "They do eat bird seed and all other animals and birds that feed on the seed."

"We cannot stress enough that people should not feed any wildlife in Orland Park. They must let Mother Nature take its course and let these animals forage for their own food. Whether it's the geese at the ponds, coyotes, raccoons, deer in your backyard or any other type of wildlife, do not feed them."