DEC Contact: Kevin Frazier (518) 402-8000 January 26, 2021
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DEC ISSUES GUIDANCE TO AVOID COYOTE CONFLICTS |
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The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today issued guidance to help prevent conflicts between people and coyotes. “Coyotes may become more territorial during the breeding and pup-rearing seasons, which in New York run from January through March, increasing the risk for potential conflicts with people and pets,” said DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos. “While coyotes are an important part of New York’s ecosystem, New Yorkers are encouraged to be aware of the increased risks for conflicts and follow DEC’s guidance to prevent coyote encounters.” The Eastern coyote is found in many habitats, from rural farmland and forests to populated suburban and urban areas across New York State. Coyotes are well adapted to suburban and even urban environments and tend to avoid conflicts with people. However, conflicts with people and pets may occur, particularly during the spring denning and pupping period. If coyotes learn to associate food, such as garbage or pet food, with peoples' homes, these animals may lose their natural fear of humans and increase the potential for close encounters or conflicts. To reduce or prevent conflicts with coyotes, New Yorkers are encouraged to take the following steps:
For additional information about the Eastern coyote and preventing conflicts with coyotes, visit the DEC webpages below: Feeding Wildlife: A Wrong Choice |
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