Authorities Urge Caution After Report Of 'Brazen' Coyote Attacking Dog In Westchester

IRVINGTON, NY — Coyotes in the Hudson Valley tend to make timid neighbors, but the behavior of one wild animal along the Hudson is raising concern.

The Irvington Police Department said it has received several reports of coyote sightings throughout the village over the past several days. Some of the recent reports received indicated that the coyote was becoming increasingly brazen and exhibiting behavior that has raised concern among residents, police said in a notification to the community,

Officers responded to the reported locations and conducted area canvasses, but were unable to locate the animal, according to police.

On Friday, however, the department received a report from a resident that their dog was attacked by a coyote. Officers responded to the area, but again, the coyote had already fled prior to their arrival.

Police said that anyone who sees a coyote in the village, is asked to contact the Irvington Police Department immediately.

"We urge all residents to exercise caution, particularly during the early morning and evening hours when coyotes are most active," Irvington Police Department advised. "Pets should be closely supervised at all times and brought indoors whenever possible. Residents are also reminded not to leave pet food, garbage, or other attractants outside."

Meanwhile, the Hastings on Hudson Police Department also reports increased incidents of coyote activity in the village, including more sightings during the daytime.

"This behavior during this time of year is perfectly normal, a time known as pupping season, when adult coyotes hunt around the clock to meet demands of nursing and feeding their offspring," Hastings-on-Hudson police said. "This time also makes coyotes more protective and may see off-leash dogs as threats."

The department said that although coyote sightings in the area are normal, if a coyote seems to lack fear and actively approaches humans or aggressively stalks pets, seems disoriented, staggers, seems sickly, or has visible paralysis/injuries, it could be a cause for concern.

The department asked the community to report any concerning coyote activity in the village to the Hastings-on-Hudson Police Department at 914-478-2344