Montgomery Parks

Police Remind Residents Not to Feed Coyotes

By Patrick Herron
Courtesy Gary Soneira 

With increased coyote sightings recently in the area, the Rockville City Police Department (RCPD) is reminding residents not to feed coyotes, secure trash and pet food, and keep pets leashed.

If a coyote is encountered, make loud noises, wave your arms, and report aggressive behavior to RCPD at 240-314-8900.

Montgomery Parks recently shared information regarding “coyotes in the suburbs” that can be seen below:

Montgomery Parks notes that Maryland and Delaware were among the last regions in the United States to be colonized by coyotes, which have been present in Montgomery County since the late 1980s with an increased presence the last couple of decades. More per Montgomery Parks:

“It may seem strange to think of coyotes as suburban dwellers, but they are extremely intelligent and adaptable and have taken up residence even within the limits of many large cities across the country. Suburban development with nicely landscaped yards and golf courses, abundant open space and parks, and a mix of agriculture is an ideal habitat for many wildlife species, especially the adaptable coyote. Ensuring that coyotes are viewed as good neighbors has as much to do with our actions as theirs. Coyotes that become too comfortable around humans can quickly become pests. In order to peacefully coexist with coyotes, we are the ones who must learn to adapt.

Here are some things to do and not do in order to keep coyotes wild and to minimize conflicts:

  • NEVER feed coyotes or wildlife (other than birds)
  • Don’t leave bowls of pet food or water outside at night
  • Keep garbage in sturdy containers with tight fitting lids
  • Keep compost in enclosed bins instead of exposed piles
  • Keep bird feeders out of reach and don’t let seeds accumulate on the ground
  • Keep pets inside at night and watch small dogs while outside, even during daylight hours
  • Keep cats indoors
  • Always walk your dogs on a leash (this is required on parkland and in other locals)
  • Spay or neuter your dogs
  • Supervise small children (under 5 years old) at all
  • Close off crawl spaces under porches and sheds where coyotes could rest and den
  • Don’t tolerate coyotes around your yard – chase them off by yelling, throwing sticks

NOTE: Individuals who are experiencing problems with coyotes or other wildlife species are encouraged to call the toll-free Maryland Wildlife Information line at (877) 463-6497.”