Jun 18, 2015 By Suzanne Elliott 2 min read

Bethel Park police are warning residents to be careful if they spot a coyote.

While coyotes are not new to the area, Bethel Park police said multiple calls have been received about the animals. Some calls have been received in Peters Township too, said Harry Fruecht, Peters police chief.

Detective Joelle Dixon of the Bethel Park police said residents should not feed animals that coyotes tend prey upon, like birds or squirrels.

“Bird seed often attracts these innocent animals to your backyard, which, in turn, attracts a coyote that is hungry,” Dixon said.

Dixon said fear of humans is key to coyote survival and attacks on humans are rare. Coyotes tend to be skittish around humans and typically try and avoid humans when possible, she added.

If a coyote is spotted in a neighborhood, the animals can be frightened with loud noises. Also, keep garbage in a tightly sealed container, remove pet food, fallen fruit and spilled seed beneath bird feeders. Plus, yard lights and motion detectors are good to frighten the animals.

Outdoor pets should be kept in fenced areas and covered kennels. Dixon said pet owners should stay with their pets while they are outdoors. Pets should be on a leash and not allowed to run loose.

“If you encounter a coyote, do not turn your back on a coyote or run away from a coyote,” she said. “If approached, make loud noises and make yourself look big. If this fails, throw rocks or other objects.”

“Always keep yourself between the coyote and small children,” Dixon added.