More Coyote Sightings In Towamencin Area

TOWAMENCIN, PA — An increase in coyote sightings has been reported recently Towamencin, township officials said on Tuesday. Coyotes are native to the area, sightings are not uncommon, and they are generally not dangerous, wildlife biologists remind the public.

The sightings have been largely concentrated near Kibler Meadows, betweeen Kerr and Schlosser roads in the township's "Panhandle" section.

Often, an increase in coyote sightings is preceded by a change in human behavior: trash bins left unsecured, dumpsters left overflowing, pet food left out, and similar opportunities for coyotes to get food.

Despite this, experts say that coyotes generally avoid contact with humans and even if encountered, are rarely aggressive.

There is a danger for pets, especially cats and smaller dogs that are running loose or unattended.

Eastern coyote populations have boomed in urban and suburban areas across the United States over the past century. As development continues to expand, coyote populations nevertheless flourish; like deer, they are uniquely adapted to edge habitats, or the area at the edge of the woods and development.

While woods provide cover and shelter and occasionally food, cities and suburban areas provide more consistent sources of food. Humans leave edible garbage everywhere: overflowing trash cans, dumpsters, at the front curb. And because coyotes are very smart and very fast, they know when they can get away with stealing what they need to survive.

If you see a coyote exhibiting any unusual or aggressive behavior, contact the Pennsylvania Gaming Commission immediately at 610-926-3136.

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