5 Things About Coyotes in Northern New Jersey

This month residents in Hackensack and Maywood have spotted coyotes roaming the streets. Here are some things you should know about these canine relatives of wolves and dogs.

• The coyote closely resembles a small German shepherd with the exception of a long snout and bushy, black-tipped tail. They can come in a variety of color phases including blonde, red and black. The most noticeable difference between a coyote and a dog is that a coyote holds its tail in a horizontal position while standing, walking or running.
• Highly adjustable to their surroundings, a coyote can feed on rabbits, mice, birds and other small animals, as well as young and weakened deer. But are also known for killing small dogs on occasion.
• 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 and put away bird feeders at night to avoid attracting rodents and other coyote prey. 
• 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 the Division of Fish and Wildlife at 908-735-8793; outside of normal business hours call the DEP Hotline at 877-WARN-DEP.