Coyote Awareness and Safety

The Bergen County Department of Health Services is issuing a public health advisory to raise awareness about recent reports of increased coyote activity in our area. While coyotes generally avoid humans, it is important for residents to take precautions to prevent conflicts and protect their pets. Coyotes are wild members of the dog family that closely resemble a small German Shepherd, except for their long snouts and bushy, black-tipped tails. A distinguishing feature of the coyote is that they hold their tails below a horizontal position while standing, walking, and running.

Recommended Safety Measures:

• Do not approach or feed coyotes.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Supervise small pets when they are outdoors and keep them on a leash.
• Secure garbage cans, remove potential food sources, and clear overgrown brush.
• If a coyote gets too close, make loud noises, yell, and clap. Do not turn your back and run.

Reports of coyote activity during the daytime, or sightings of aggressive, sick, or injured coyotes, should be directed to 9-1-1 and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection 24/7 hotline at 1-877-WARNDEP (927-6337).