Coyote

The Olympia Fields Police Department has responded to an increase in coyote sightings and encounters in residential and park areas within the Village. Most of the encounters are from a distance and the coyotes prefer to stay away from interaction with humans.

Minimizing Encounters

Police recommend some very specific actions for residents to take to minimize coyote-human encounters and to protect people and their domestic pets:

• Clear away all bushes and dense weeds near your home where coyotes might seek cover.
• Do NOT encourage coyotes or any other wild animal by feeding them.
• If possible, do not keep garbage cans outside.
• If possible, do not keep garbage cans outside.
• Keep barbeque grills clean.
• Keep pet food and water dishes inside.

Recommended Guidelines

Coyotes, like other wild animals, can acclimate to their environments and become "comfortable" if unchallenged or unnoticed. If an encounter does occur, police recommend the following guidelines listed below:

• Do not be submissive, turn your back or run.
• If you are followed by a coyote, you are likely walking through its territory and it is merely escorting or "shadowing" you to make sure you are not threat.
• Although unlikely, if you encounter aggressive behavior, throw clods of earth, or sticks near the ground by the coyote first, and then if necessary, towards its body.

Keeping Pets Safe

Coyotes are wild animals who hunt other animals for survival. They have been known to kill foxes and other wild animals which compete with coyotes for small prey. Domestic dogs and cats specifically, smaller young or old dogs and cats may sometimes be appealing to coyotes.  Below are a few recommendations to keep your pets safe:

• Walk you dog or cat on a leash.
• Never leave dogs or cats unattended in the yard and always keep them inside at night.
• Keep your yard well-illuminated when outdoors at night with your pet.