Contributed photo
Contributed photo
City of Elmhurst officials, including the Elmhurst Police Department, have received several reports of coyote sightings by residents in recent weeks.
Elmhurst Police remind residents of the precautions that must be taken when the wild animals are spotted in neighborhoods throughout the city.
First of all, police suggest assessing the situation. If the animal appears aggressive, call 911 immediately and warn your neighbors.
“If the animal is injured or aggressive, we would attempt to take action,” Elmhurst Police Chief Michael Ruth said. “If there is just a sighting, we would monitor the situation, as coyotes generally do not like to get too close to people.”
Often, coyotes are drawn to food that is left in trash bins or provided to domestic pets. Officials have provided a checklist of safety actions that can be taken to reduce the chances of you or your pet encountering a coyote. Keeping garbage cans in a closed garage, keeping barbecue grills clean, feeding your pets inside, and remaining with your pet at all times are some of them. View the whole list at www.elmhurst.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1268.
The website www.coyotecoexistence.com includes more valuable information regarding encounters with coyotes.
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