A number of recent coyote sightings has prompted one Northampton County municipality to update its website with information about how to keep the animals away.
The topic came up at Monday night’s board of commissioners meeting, when resident Don Wright expressed safety concerns after seeing coyotes three times in the past month.
“There are a lot of small pets, but there are also small children,” Wright said, asking the township for guidance.
Commissioner Michael Hudak said it’s illegal for residents to hunt or trap coyotes, but commiserated.Â
“I’ve got a ton of them down by my house. I’ve got a ton of vet bills,” he said.
Hudak said there’s a bright side to all this: “Coyotes were all but extinct. It’s kind of a good thing they’re coming back.”
According to the Bethlehem Township website, coyotes are rarely dangerous and try to avoid people. If you spot one, the township asks that you report it to the police.
The website says residents can take these steps to help keep coyotes out of their neighborhoods.
Firmly secure your garbage so that a coyote would not be able to gain access and eat from garbage bins.Â
Only feed your pets inside and never leave or store pet food outdoors.
If you know of any rodent problem on your property, have the issue managed quickly, as rodents are a prime food source for coyotes.
Do not leave any smaller dogs, cats or other pets outside unsupervised, especially between dusk and dawn.
If you have a fence or gate to your back yard, make sure it is secured.
Keep your grass well maintained and all shrubs, trees and bushes trimmed, doing so will remove shelter for coyotes.
Remove any structures, equipment, piles, etc. that could provide shelter to coyotes.