The Eastern Coyote In Norristown Farm Park

NORRISTOWN, PA — Many people are unaware that a creature partway between a domesticated dog and a wolf not only roams the warrens and woods of Philadelphia and the surrounding suburbs, but, in fact, thrives in this unique borderlands environment.

Norristown Farm Park is offering a free educational program on the coyote on Sunday, Sept. 3 at 6:30 p.m. at the farm park.

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.

Ranger Tim Wilson will lead a talk on the coyote in Norristown. The talk will be followed by a walk in the park.

This free program is appropriate for adults and children ages six and older. Pre-registration is required. To reserve your spot, please call 610-270-0215.

Norristown Farm Park is located at Barley Sheaf Drive and Germantown Pike in East Norriton, PA 19403. Meet at the park office.

Image of Eastern Coyote via NYDEC