Village of Croton-on-Hudson officials are reminding residents to take precautions around coyotes after a recent report that a coyote attacked and carried away a family’s cat in Croton-on-Hudson.
Croton-on-Hudson Police
said officers responded around 9 a.m. Saturday to a report of a cat that had been taken from a yard on O’Riley Court. The coyote ran into a wooded area with the cat and was not located.Officials said the incident is a reminder for residents to take steps to protect pets and reduce conflicts with coyotes.
How to prevent coyote encounters in your yard
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation recommends several steps to reduce the chance of attracting coyotes and other wildlife.
Residents should:
- Never feed coyotes or encourage others to feed them.
- Keep pet food indoors and do not leave food outside.
- Secure garbage so coyotes and other wildlife cannot access it.
- Remove bird feeders or reduce bird seed use, which can attract birds and rodents that may also attract coyotes.
How to protect pets from coyotes
The DEC recommends that residents:
- Do not allow coyotes to approach people or pets.
- Keep pets supervised outdoors, especially around sunset and at night when coyotes are more active.
- Do not allow pets to roam freely.
- Consider installing fencing that is tight to the ground, extends about 6 inches below ground level and is taller than 4 feet.
- Remove brush and tall grass around homes to reduce hiding areas for coyotes.
Residents should also remain aware
of their surroundings and consider carrying a flashlight or walking stick when outside, particularly in areas where coyotes have been reported.
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Coyote attacks cat in Westchester yard, prompting warning for pet owners
