Coyotes Spotted In Norwalk: Police

Norwalk CT

07 September, 2021

4:24 PM

Description

NORWALK, CT — Police said two coyotes have recently been spotted in the Flax Hill Park area of Norwalk, according to the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. Police announced the sightings Tuesday afternoon on the department's Facebook page. In light of these sightings, police provided the following safety information for residents: Do not allow pets to run free. Keep cats indoors, particularly at night, and dogs on a leash or under close supervision at all times. The installation of a kennel or coyote-proof fencing is a long-term solution for protecting pets. An invisible electric fence is not effective in protecting dogs from coyote attacks.Never feed coyotes! Do note place food out for any mammals. Clean up bird seed below feeders, pet foods, and fallen fruit.Secure garbage and compost in animal-proof containers.Always walk dogs on a leash. If approached by a coyote while walking your dog, keep the dog under control and calmly leave the area. Do not run or turn your back. Coyotes are territorial and many reports of bold coyotes visiting yards, howling or threatening larger dogs can often be attributed to this territorial behavior.Attempt to frighten away coyotes by making loud noises (shouting) and acting aggressively (e.g., waving your arms, throwing sticks, spraying with a hose).Be aware of any coyote behaving abnormally or exhibiting unusually bold behavior (e.g., approaching people for food, attacking leashed pets that are with their owners, stalking children, chasing joggers or bikers, etc.) and report these incidents immediately.Be aware of and report any coyotes exhibiting behavior indicative of rabies, such as staggering, seizures and extreme lethargy. Daytime activity is not uncommon and does not necessarily indicate rabies.Teach children to recognize coyotes and to go inside the house (do not run) or climb up on a swing or deck and yell if they are approached.Prevent coyotes from denning in close proximity to homes and yards with pets and children. Identify potential den sites in March when snow tracking can easily reveal natural dug burrows, rock crevices, hollow tree trunk cavities, and crawl spaces under sheds or even decks – especially on unoccupied homes or cottages.Refer to this page for additional information. Contact the DEEP Wildlife Division at 860-424-3011 for more information on coyotes or other wildlife problems.