This photo, posted on Facebook last month by a Hastings resident, shows a Coyote on its porch
From the Hastings on Hudson Police Department on Sept. 24.
The Village of Hastings-on-Hudson Police Department is advising residents that a Village resident was bitten by a coyote last evening in the area of Elm Place and the Old Croton Aqueduct.
As a precaution, we are asking all residents to remain vigilant and use caution when walking in the area, particularly during the early morning, evening, and nighttime hours.
Another post from the Hastings PD dated
Dear Residents,
Following our earlier notification regarding the coyote incident in the area of Elm Place and the Old Croton Aqueduct, I wanted to provide the community with an update on the steps the Hastings-on-Hudson Police Department is taking.
The purpose of our initial email was to alert residents to the incident and provide important safety information. We understand that residents may have additional concerns, and I want to assure everyone that the Department is taking this matter seriously and is doing everything within our ability to address the situation.
The Hastings-on-Hudson Police Department is working closely with Greenburgh Animal Control, the Dobbs Ferry Police Department, and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Police.
As part of this coordinated effort, residents should expect to see an increased police and animal-control presence in and around the area of Elm Place and the Old Croton Aqueduct. Officers and animal-control personnel will monitor the area, respond to reported sightings, and work together to locate and safely capture the animal.
Our goal is to locate and safely capture the coyote as soon as possible. We will continue to utilize the resources available to us and coordinate with our partner agencies throughout this effort.
We ask residents to continue to exercise caution, particularly when walking pets or children in the area. Please do not approach, feed, or attempt to capture the coyote yourself. If you observe the animal, maintain a safe distance and contact the Hastings-on-Hudson Police Department (914 478 2344) so that we can respond appropriately.
We appreciate the cooperation and patience of our residents as we work through this situation. The safety of our community remains our highest priority, and we will continue to keep residents informed as additional information becomes available.
Thank you for your continued cooperation.
Sincerely,
Chief David A, Dosin
PoliceChief@hohny.gov
COYOTE SAFETY TIPS
Keeping Our Community and Pets Safe
Coyotes are increasingly common in suburban communities. The presence of a coyote does not necessarily mean that the animal is sick or dangerous. However, residents should use caution and take appropriate steps to reduce the likelihood of encounters.
IF YOU SEE A COYOTE
- Stay calm and maintain a safe distance.
- Do not approach, feed, or attempt to interact with a coyote.
- Make yourself appear large and make loud noises by yelling, clapping, or using a whistle.
- Never run from a coyote. Slowly back away while facing the animal.
- If a coyote continues to approach, continue making yourself appear large and use loud, assertive sounds.
- Keep children close to you and bring them indoors if a coyote is nearby.
KEEP YOUR PETS SAFE
- Keep dogs on a leash when walking them.
- Do not allow pets to roam unattended, particularly during dawn, dusk, and nighttime hours.
- Keep cats indoors.
- Remain outside with small pets and supervise them closely.
- If you encounter a coyote while walking your dog, pick up a small pet if it can be done safely and slowly leave the area.
- Do not allow pets to chase or approach coyotes.
REMOVE ATTRACTANTS
- Coyotes are attracted to easily accessible food sources. Residents can help reduce wildlife encounters by:Securing garbage and keeping trash containers tightly closed.
- Bringing pet food and water indoors.
- Cleaning up fallen fruit from trees.
- Removing bird feeders or placing them away from areas where wildlife is frequently observed.
- Keeping compost properly secured.
- Never intentionally feeding coyotes or other wildlife.
IF A COYOTE APPEARS SICK, INJURED, OR AGGRESSIVE
Do not approach or attempt to capture the animal.
If a coyote appears disoriented or unusually tame;
- Is stumbling or having difficulty walking;
- Is acting aggressively toward people or pets; or
- Has bitten or scratched a person or domestic animal, move to a safe location and contact the appropriate authorities.
REMEMBER
Do not feed coyotes.
Do not approach coyotes.
Do not run from coyotes.
Keep pets supervised and secured.
Remove food sources and other attractants.
By taking these simple precautions, residents can help reduce wildlife conflicts and protect themselves, their families, and their pets.
Thank you for your cooperation and continued vigilance.
Sincerely,
Chief A. Dosin
PoliceChief@hohny.gov