Coyote Sightings: What To Do To Stay Safe

COVENTRY, R.I. -- Following reports of a potential coyote sighting in Coventry, Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management officials are reminding the public of the best practices when it comes to brushes with wildlife.

At this time, there have been no official reports of a sick or injured coyote to the DEM in the Blackrock area of Coventry. The department will send a staff member to assess the situation if this occurs.

To avoid drawing coyotes and other wildlife to the area, residents are encouraged to keep their yards free from any potential food sources. This includes bird feeders, pet food, trash, meat or sweet items in compost piles or very greasy grills. According to the DEM, coyotes will adjust their diets to whatever is most easily accessible, eating anything and everything they can find.

If coyotes find plentiful food sources near humans, they can become bolder and used to being around humans, which puts domestic pets at risk and is dangerous to the animal.

To keep domestic animals safe, pet owners are encouraged to keep their cats, dogs and other small animals inside when not attended, especially at night.

As always, it's important to remember that coyotes and other wild animals should never be approached, instead enjoyed from a distance. This ensures the safety of people and the animals.

For more information, check out the DEM's coyote fact sheet.