Erie, Kan. (KOAM) – Erie Elementary School is urging caution after a fox was seen lingering near the school playground on Tuesday afternoon.

According to a message sent to families, staff kept students indoors for safety after noticing that the fox would not leave the area and appeared unusually unafraid of people.

“Today, for the safety of the staff and students, we kept everyone off of the playground this afternoon,” the school’s message read. “There was a fox that would not evacuate the area and was not scared or shy around people.”

The school contacted Animal Control and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks for assistance, but neither agency was able to respond that day.

Officials are reminding families who walk or ride bikes around the school grounds after hours to remain cautious until the animal is safely removed.

Parents are encouraged to report any additional sightings of the fox to local authorities or the school office.

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