Coyote Sighting Reported In Upper Makefield

Police in Upper Makefield reported a coyote sighting this week.

According to information shared by the department, an officer saw the coyote along the 300 block of Woodhill Road on Tuesday. As police note, coyote attacks on humans are "very rare," but some residents have concerns about pets.

Police offered up the following tips in response to those residents' concerns:

• Keep cats indoors and dogs leashed and supervised whenever outside, especially at night
• A coyote-proof kennel or fence (6-foot high fencing with the bottom extending two feet underground, to prevent digging) provides the best protection for pets
• Keep dogs leashed and stay in open, well-lit areas
• Light your yard
• Store pet food indoors or at least in a coyote-proof container
• Keep your garbage containers inside the garage and sealed tight
• Avoid areas frequented by coyotes or that are known den sites
• If followed or approached by a coyote, get your pet safely inside, but do not run or turn your back. If you can’t go inside, act aggressively by shouting, waving arms, or throwing objects to reinforce the threat. Carrying an air-horn or pepper spray may be considered for those seeking further protection.
• Screen off openings under sheds and decks