Coyotes Attacked, Killed Deer In Metuchen, Officials Say

METUCHEN, NJ — Two fawns were killed in a probable coyote attack earlier this week, Metuchen officials said.

The two deer were killed by the high school, and more than one coyote could be involved. "Coyotes can be aggressive and generally avoid contact with people but, under some circumstances, are dangerous for animals. As a result, please make sure to keep an eye on your pets at all times and always keep them leashed outside of your home," officials said.

Coyotes are, by nature, afraid of humans, but feeding them can cause that fear to disappear, the NJ DEP says. The best way to keep yourself safe from coyotes is to not feed them, keep garbage locked up, and keep pets inside at night.

Although unusual, coyote attacks are not unheard of. Last year a man was attacked by a rabid coyote, and a family dog was killed in Northern New Jersey.

• Read More: Coyote In Long Valley Attack Was Rabid, Police Share Safety Tips
• Read More: Pack of Coyotes Kill Family Dog: Bloomingdale Police

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