Hide your kids, hide your pets, and make sure the holes in your fences are fixed, too, because coyotes are living among you.
There have been at least two coyotes spotted in the Richmond area in the past week, and one attack on a dog.
Seem uncommon? Well, kinda. But you might want to get used to it.
Coyotes are on the rise in Richmond, and not just in rural areas, either. Two days ago, an attack occurred near Carytown. Granted, it was in the gated community of Lockgreen, a bit past Windsor Farmswhich is not as urban, as well, Carytown itself.
That attack wasnt the first in the area either, but the other two were on deer, not a family pet.
About a week ago, on her way to a graduation party held next door, Merle Hirschman caught something out of the corner of her eye.
I thought it was a deer, she said.
The Hirschmans frequently have deer stop by their backyard to eat fallen peaches. But last week, it was a coyote who wanted a taste.
I havent seen either one since then, said Hirschman, who wonders if the coyote has gotten to the deer. She has lived in the Midlothian neighborhood since 2002, and seen all kinds of wildlife–just not a coyote.
Rob Leinberger, Jr., assistant supervisor for Chesterfield County Animal Control, said, in an interview, that the species continues to grow because they adapt so well. Although coyotes are good at finding hiding places, they more commonly live in rural,western Virginia.
We want people to make sure the animals are afraid of them any wild animal for that matter. Its a matter of deterring the animal, Leinberger said, to reporter Elizabeth Farina.
The frequency in sightings is proportional to an increase in development, and a lack of rural tracts for coyotes, and other animals, to call home.
Leinberger suggested not feeding animals outside. If any food is left out, coyotes will be attracted to it, and become more domesticated.
If a coyote becomes accustomed to a food source within a particular area, they will frequent it, which invites dangerous encounters with the wild animals.
Dont give the creatures opportunities by leaving trash, or open trash containers accessible.
Make sure that your animals are up-to-date with their rabies shots.
Also, avoid tossing any coins to panhandling coyotes if seen in the Carytown area. Coyotes are considered to be the ultimate Tricksters, and likely wont be using the money for busfare or asthma medicine.
Tags: Your Animals
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