CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) – During coyote mating season in Massachusetts from late January to early March, MassWildlife officials are advising residents to take steps to prevent conflict.

Coyote sightings in western Massachusetts are fairly common, but coyotes are especially active right now. Mid-February is the peak of their breeding season. There are some precautions you should take if you spot coyotes in your neighborhood.

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Coyotes are typically fearful of humans, but if you see one acting aggressively, contact the environmental police. MassWildlife advises protecting pets, removing human-associated food sources, and hazing coyotes if spotted.

Coyotes primarily travel between dusk and dawn, but can be active 24 hours a day. They can be dangerous to small pets as they view them as a potential food source. To keep your pets safe, owners should always accompany their pets when they are outside.

Don’t leave bird seed, garbage, compost, or pet food outside your home. Coyotes can become dependent on food sources, so it is important to secure or remove available food.

If you encounter a coyote, MassWildlife says hazing is a technique to deter them, such as creating loud noises safely from inside a building, from behind a screen door, or from a car. While there have been some reports of coyotes attacking pets in the past, they generally try to avoid contact with humans.

This is also coyote hunting season in Massachusetts. The season runs from January 1st through March 8th. Hunting is not allowed on Sundays, and you must have all the required licenses and permits to hunt coyotes.

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