Keep pets safe as more coyote sightings are reported in area

More people across the state are reporting an increased number of coyote sightings, and with that are more reports of coyotes taking out people’s pets.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife said this is partly because it is easier to see the animals when there is snow on the ground.

The coyote is not native to Ohio, but the versatile animal can be found in all of Ohio’s 88 counties. A map the department released shows the most number of coyotes in the area are in Greene and Montgomery counties.

Take precautions to protect pets by keeping cats and dogs indoors, to take away food sources for them and to keep an eye on your companion animals.

“Turning on a light when you let your animal out, particularly at night,” said Brett Beatty, wildlife management supervisor with ODNR Division of Wildlife in Greene County. “If you have a lead, keep (the) animal close to (the) house.”

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If you see a coyote, make yourself seem big by making loud noises or throwing something.

A COYOTE IS IN YOUR BACKYARD. WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?

Identify that the canine is truly a coyote and not a stray dog. If it's a stray dog,

contact your county dog warden.

If you do have a coyote, remove all "attractants" to help deter its return. This means to remove garbage and petfood before nightfall and clean up around the grill.

Coyotes prey primarily on small mammals such as rabbits and mice, but small pets also may be taken. Keep small dogs and cats inside or stay with them at night when coyotes are most active.

Coyotes are curious, but generally fearful of humans. Clap your hands and shout to scare off coyotes that are investigating your yard.

If the coyote in your yard seems to lack a fear of humans or is presenting a conflict even after removing attractants from your yard, contact a nuisance trapper. To find a trapper near you, call the Division of Wildlife at 1-800-WILDLIFE (945-3543).

Coyotes in rural areas can be controlled through legal hunting and trapping methods. Consult the yearly Ohio Hunting and Trapping Regulations booklet.

Go to www.wildohio.org to view more information online.