Coyote Sightings On The Rise In Montgomery County

By Justin Heinze:

Coyote sightings have increased throughout the area, according to the Whitpain Township Police.

It is not known what has caused the increased activity of the animals.

Coyotes generally are not agressive to humans, but they could be dangerous to pets that are smaller than they are, police said.

Coyotes will typically run and hide when they see a human, but they have also been known to follow at a distance out of curiosity.

Female coyotes give birth in the spring and will aggressively defend their puppies from anything which they see as threatening, police siad.

If you see a coyote, back away slowly. If a coyote comes towards you, make noise, raise your arms, and attempt to make yourself appear larger, all while continuing to back away.

This is not the first notice issued by the Whitpain Police about coyotes. There was a similar uptick in sightings in 2013.

“Please do not feed wild animals,” police said in a statement. “This only teaches them that humans are a source of food and increases the risk of conflict. Wild animals are part of the beauty and rich heritage of Whitpain. Please exercise respect and use common sense if you should see coyotes or other wild animals.”

Whitpain Police are askiing all residents to report sightings by calling 610-279-9033.