Coyote Spotted in Buckhall Area

Local health officials are reminding residents about the dangers of wildlife after a coyote was spotted recently in the Buckhall area off the Prince William County parkway.

"Coyotes are opportunistic and territorial, and will prey on unattended small dogs and cats," said Lorrie Andrew-Spear, a spokesperson for the Prince William Health District. "However, because coyotes are known to have an instinctive fear of people, human attacks are very rare." 

A sick coyote had to be euthanized Thursday when it walked into a Roanoke area body shop.

The Prince William Health District recommends the following tips: 

• Animals look for places to den and raise their young. To prevent this, close and seal all openings under and into buildings.
• Keep brushy areas in your yard cut back.
• Do not feed coyotes or any other wildlife. 
• Keep trash inside or in an animal-proof container. 
• Do not leave pet food outside. 
• Keep small pets inside as much as possible.

If you observe a coyote or any other wildlife or pets in your community exhibiting signs of rabies, such as stumbling, foaming at the mouth or showing aggression, contact the Prince William County Animal Control Division at 703-792-6500.