Coyote Spotted in Heathcote

The children at Heathcote School spent lunch recess today in the gymnasium.

It was for safety reasons, as several people saw a coyote this morning in and around the school grounds.

There were reported sightings on both Fayette and Lincoln Roads.

Eye witnesses said it was a disheveled-looking furry critter the size of a German Shepherd.  

Here are some guidelines from the New York Department of Environmental Conservation:

• Do not feed coyotes

• If you see a coyote, be aggressive in your behavior - make loud noises, wave your arms, throw sticks and stones

• Do not allow pets to run free

• Do not feed pets outside

• Make any garbage inaccessible to coyotes and other animals

• Eliminate availability of bird seed. Coyotes are attracted to the concentration of birds and rodents that come to feeders. If you do feed birds, clean up waste seed and spillage

• Fencing your yard may deter coyotes. The fence should be tight to the ground, preferably extending six inches below ground level

• Remove brush and tall grass from around your property to reduce protective cover for coyotes

• Teach children to appreciate coyotes from a distance

• Regulated hunting and trapping increases the "fear" coyotes have towards people.

Ask your neighbors to follow these same steps and we'll all be a little safer this weekend!