Coyote Sighting In Somerset County, Officials Warn

SOMERVILLE, NJ — Multiple coyote sightings have been reported in Somerville prompting officials to issue a warning.

"We have received reports of a coyote sighting in the eastern part of the borough," said Borough of Somerville, NJ - Government.

Sightings were reported in the area of S. Richards Avenue, Kirby Avenue, and S. Auten Avenue.

"Small children and pets should never be left unattended. Always walk dogs on a leash," said borough officials.

To report a sighting contact NJ Fish and Wildlife at 877-927-6337.

Here are some Coyote Precautions from NJ Fish and Wildlife:

The following guidelines 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, throw rocks, or spray them with a garden hose.

If you observe coyotes in the daytime that show no fear of humans or if a coyote attacks a person, immediately contact your local police and NJ Fish and Wildlife at 908-735-8793; outside of normal business hours call the DEP Hotline at 877-WARN-DEP.

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