June 26, 2006 Contact: Sue Cabeceiras
For Immediate Release 738-2000, ext. 6286
Wildlife Commission offers tips to mitigate coyote problems
WARWICK – The city’s Wildlife and Conservation Commission today offered suggestions to help residents deal with the coyote population.
On October 18, 2005, Mayor Scott Avedisian issued Executive Order 2005-30, transferring the duties of the Coyote Commission to the Wildlife and Conservation Commission. The Coyote Commission report (available on the City of Warwick’s website) recommended that the city educate owners of domestic animals on how to protect their pets.
The Wildlife and Conservation Commission would like to provide the following helpful suggestions in dealing with coyotes. This information has been taken from the Department of Environmental Management’s website and is also included the City of Warwick’s Website.
Some things you should do to avoid or eliminate problems with coyotes:
· Do not leave garbage containers open or accessible to animals.
· Do not feed your pets outside. If you must, remove all uneaten food immediately.
· Never intentionally feed coyotes or other wild animals.
· Keep small pets, especially cats, indoors. A coyote will not make a distinction between your house cat and any other small mammal.
· Keep your pets’ vaccinations and heartworm prevention up to date.
· Inform young children never to approach any wild animals.
· Protect vulnerable domestic fowl and livestock in enclosures, particularly during birthing season. Properly dispose of carcasses. Consult with the Division of Fish and Wildlife for ways to protect livestock from coyotes and other predators.
· Use loud noises such as whistles, air horns, shouting or whatever is available to discourage coyotes from taking shortcuts or frequenting backyards.
· Inform local or DEM officials of any contacts between coyotes and pets, and people.