Irvington Village officials are urging residents to stay alert after a series of coyote sightings and a recent attack on a family pet raised concerns about increased wildlife activity during coyote pupping season.
The warning comes after Becky, a 5-year-old rescue dog, was attacked mid-June while in the backyard of her home on Lewis Road. Her owner, Erin Hally Reddy, said she screamed and threw rocks at the coyote until it released the dog. Becky survived the attack and is continuing her recovery.
Irvington reports more coyote activity in area
Village officials say the incident is part of a recent increase in coyote activity reported throughout Irvington.
In a June 17 community advisory, Mayor Arlene Burgos said the Irvington Police Department received multiple reports of coyote sightings, with some residents describing the animal as becoming increasingly bold.
“Some reports indicated that the coyote was becoming increasingly brazen and exhibiting behavior that has raised concerns among residents,” Burgos said. “In addition to the sightings, a dog was attacked by a coyote within the Village. Officers responded to the area, but the coyote had already fled by the time they arrived.”
According to Burgos, Police Chief Pignatelli has been consulting with Greenburgh Animal Control and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to determine the appropriate response. While village officials considered hiring a trapper, the DEC advised that doing so would likely be ineffective because several days had passed since the last confirmed sighting.
“They believe the coyote has moved on,” Burgos said. “At this time, the DEC recommends that we continue to monitor the situation and reevaluate the course of action if we receive further reports.”
Why coyotes are more active now
Increased coyote activity is expected this time of year during pupping season, when adult coyotes hunt more frequently and may become more protective of their territory while raising their young.
The DEC advises anyone who encounters a coyote to stand their ground, make loud noises, raise their arms to appear larger and continue acting aggressively until the animal retreats. Residents are also encouraged to supervise pets outdoors, keep pet food and garbage secured, and report aggressive wildlife to local authorities.
Irvington officials are encouraging residents to remain vigilant, particularly during the early morning and evening hours when coyotes are most active, and to report any future sightings so authorities can continue monitoring the situation.
What to do if you’re approached by a coyote
Here are tips on what to do if you encounter the wild animal, as originally reported by NorthJersey.com:
How to stay safe from rabies and wildlife encounters
While a direct cause for the attack or information on the health of the coyote involved was not available, the recent reports out of Irvington also coincide with a statewide reminder from the New York State Department of Health about preventing rabies exposure during the summer months.
“Rabies is almost always fatal, there is no medicine to treat this disease, however it is preventable,” State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said in a June 17 announcement. “As New Yorkers spend more time outdoors this summer, it’s important to avoid contact with wild and stray animals, keep pets up to date on their rabies vaccinations and seek medical care right away after any bite or possible exposure.”
According to the Health Department, rabies is endemic in New York wildlife and is most commonly found in raccoons, bats, skunks and foxes, though any mammal can become infected.
Officials recommend that anyone bitten by an animal wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately, as prompt treatment can prevent rabies after a potential exposure.
Contributing: NorthJersey.com
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: What to know about coyote safety after attack in Irvington
Reporting by Michelle Grisales, Rockland/Westchester Journal News / Rockland/Westchester Journal News
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By Michelle Grisales, Rockland/Westchester Journal News | USA TODAY Network
