Fairfax County, Virginia: More Coyotes Spotted in Your Area

Residents in Fairfax County are seeing an increase in the number of coyotes in their neighborhoods in recent months.

A wildlife official for the county said the canines are well established and widespread, so residents should know and understand how to deal with any interactions. January to June is considered mating season for coyotes, and lone male coyotes are on the move, looking for a mate, or females may be looking to create dens in small, enclosed areas.

Small pets may be considered prey due to their similar size to the animal’s natural prey. Larger dogs may be viewed as potential competitors since coyotes are territorial.

“The best way to safeguard pets in areas where coyotes are active is to keep them indoors and do not leave them outside without supervision,” said Dr. Katherine Edwards, Fairfax County Wildlife Management Specialist, in a release.

Officials said coyotes have been sighted in most county parks and residental areas. Recently, a coyote was found after it was hit by a car in the Riverside Park area of Alexandria, Virginia.

In 2012, a dog was attacked by coyotes in Daniel Run Park, located in the area between Old Lee Highway and Main Street. Officials believe the dog, which was off its leash, probably wandered too close to a coyote den.

Preventive practices, such as reduction and removal of food attractants, habitat modification and responding appropriately when interacting with wildlife, are keys to minimizing the likelihood of conflicts with coyotes. People that are approached by a coyote should make noise to scare it off.

If coyotes are behaving aggressively or appear sick or injured, contact the Fairfax County Police non-emergency number at 703-691-2131.

Tips on dealing with coyotes

FOLLOW US!

Prince William County, Virginia: Coyotes Spotted in the Manassas Area

Coyotes have been spotted in the western part of Prince William County in the Manassas area.

Police said two separate coyotes were spotted in two areas recently. They said many coyotes have been seen in the county in the past few years, and the next two months are the breeding season for coyotes.

Single coyotes are likely seeking a mate. They are nocturnal animals, venturing out mostly at night.

Police said they can be seen during the day in urban and suburban areas if there is a food source or an easily accessed area to make a den. They said the best way to prevent them from becoming a problem is to not give them a reason to take up residence in the community.

Some tips to keep coyotes away:

• Keep trash inside until the morning of trash pick-up or place trash in an animal proof container, such as a metal or plastic trashcan with latches on the lids.

• Do not leave pet food outside; keep pet feeding areas clean.

• Close up all openings under and into your buildings. Animals look for places to den and raise their young - don't give them that opportunity.

• Clear fallen fruit from around trees.

•  Keep brushy areas in your yard cut down to prevent cover for coyotes.

•  Keep small pets inside, and on a leash when outside. They may be viewed by a coyote as prey. Larger dogs are viewed as a threat particularly from January to June while mating and birthing coyote pups.

• Install coyote proof fencing to protect unsupervised pets.

Anyone experiencing a problem with coyotes or other wildlife, please dial the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries toll-free wildlife conflict helpline at 1-855-571-9003.

FOLLOW US!