Coyote sightings normal during breeding season

Date: 1/25/2013

By Carley Dangona

carley@thereminder.com

AGAWAM — Residents living in the immediate vicinity of Robinson State Park have reported coyote sightings in recent weeks. While coyotes are generally afraid of humans, they are attracted to small animals and may pose a threat to small pets.

Eileen Brumley, an Agawam resident of 45 years, said, "Our property borders Robinson State Park. We have had two visits by two different coyotes in the last two weeks. They were in our back yard both days it was around noon time."

Allison Strong, Animal Control officer, said, "Breeding season is typically during February and March; during that time the adolescent males may be run out by the stronger males and then appear closer to residential properties."

"They don't see us as a food source — they're typically afraid of humans," Strong, explained. "Coyotes can take small dogs or cats, but it's not commonplace."

On its website, the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife (MDFW) states, "Coyotes are opportunistic feeders, meaning they will feed on whatever is most readily available and easiest to obtain. Their omnivorous diet consists of a variety of foods including rodents, rabbits, deer, birds, insects, reptiles, fruits, and berries. They will scavenge road kills, rodents and birds killed by cats, as well as garbage and pet food left outdoors."

Coyotes have a similar build to a medium-size dog, but their fur is longer and thicker. The fur color varies and can be black, tan, red, gray or blonde. The long tails are black-tipped and generally point downwards. The ears of a coyote are usually pointed and upright. From the snout to the tip of the tail, a coyote can range from four to five feet in length, according to the MDFW.

Strong offered tips to keep animals safe during this period. She said it's best to have a fenced in backyard, but if that's not an option to leash pets when they are outside. She advised that bird feeders can attract coyotes since the squirrels and birds are their natural prey. Strong also reminded citizens to keep trash barrels securely closed to prevent unwanted animals in their yards.

If a coyote ventures into the yard Strong recommends making noise, "Let it be known that they're not welcome there." She noted that hand-held air horns are effective safety tools.

When residents utilize park trails, Strong advised adorning shoes with bells to avoid startling wild animals.

"Don't corner a wild animal," she added, stating that doing so threatens the well-being of the animal and the person.

"Wild animals still live here, especially in the areas of Feeding Hills and Agawam that aren't developed," Strong stated. "It's normal for them to populate wooded areas."

Strong said, "I have not seen any rabies cases among coyotes," adding that is important to keep pets up-to-date with vaccinations regardless.

For more information on coyotes, visit www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/index.htm.