Coyote Spotted in Bronxville, Police Offer Safety Tips

A coyote was spotted in the Village this morning, according to an alert issued by Bronxville Police Chief Christopher Satriale.

The release states that a coyote was seen on Park Avenue near Avon Road, on Tanglewydle Avenue and the High Road.

Police received three calls about three different sightings, said Satriale. He noted the Department has been in contact with the DEC, who told them they do not have permission to kill and trap a coyote, if found. (Rye, for example, was issued a special permit to do so after the incidents that occurred there). The Department was, however, counseled that hazing and harassing the animal should make it run away, he said.  

Police issued several guidelines for how residents can protect themselves from the animals. Earlier this month, the Department issued the same safety precautions, although at that time, no coyotes had been seen in the area.

Guidelines from the eAlert sent by Chief Satriale: 

• Fence pet and animal enclosures completely, if possible include a top.

• Keep cats and small dogs indoors. When walking small dogs, always keep them on a leash.

• Coyotes are most active dusk to dawn. Avoid walking pets after dark.

• Bring along pepper spray or a stick in case a coyote gets aggressive. If you see a coyote, wave your arms, shout, spray it with a hose. Be a threat! (Screaming or yelling and waving arms sometimes won't work on coyotes that have lost their fear of humans.)

• Any pet smaller than 45 pounds should never be left outside past 4 p.m.

• Feed pets indoors. Eliminate potential food and water sources such as fallen fruit or vegetables and standing water.

• Store trash in covered, heavy-duty containers.

• Keep yards free of potential hiding places. Remove thick brush and weeds. Enclose the bottoms of porches and decks.

• If you encounter a coyote that behaves aggressively, you have probably gotten too close to its prey or its family. Throw rocks, sticks or other objects. Do not turn away and run.

• Do not feed coyotes. Doing so can make them less afraid of humans and potentially more dangerous.

• Do not leave small children unattended outdoors for any period of time.

Note: These guidelines were written by the Chief and distributed through the Village's eAlert system.