FLORHAM PK - COYOTE SIGHTINGS IN THE BOROUGH

Residents have been reporting an increased number of coyote sightings in the Borough. Do not approach or engage wildlife. Coyotes are by nature wary of humans. However, coyote behavior changes if given access to human food and garbage. The NJ DEP Fish and Wildlife Division offers the following guidelines to avoid conflict with coyotes:

-Never feed a coyote. Deliberately feeding coyotes puts pets and other residents in the neighborhood at risk. Feeding pet cats and/or feral (wild) cats outdoors can attract coyotes. The coyotes feed on the pet food and also prey upon the cats.

-Put garbage in tightly closed containers that cannot be tipped over.

-Remove sources of water, especially in dry climates.

-Bring pets in at night.

-Put away bird feeders at night to avoid attracting rodents and other coyote prey.

-Provide secure enclosures for rabbits, poultry, and other farm animals.

-Pick up fallen fruit and cover compost piles.

If you observe coyotes in the daytime that show no fear of humans or if a coyote attacks a person, immediately contact your local police and NJ Fish and Wildlife at 908-735-8793; outside of normal business hours call the DEP Hotline at 877-WARN-DEP.