The Presence of Coyotes in Evendale
Coyotes are very common in Ohio and have been for some time. While not native to the state, they have been here for well over 80 years. In recent years, their loss of habitat has contributed to increased sightings and human-animal conflicts. According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife, many people believe that coyotes are aggressive animals that should be feared, but like most wild animals, they will often run at the sight or sound of a human.
Coyotes are very adaptable animals and look to find the three basic survival needs; food, water, and shelter. They can find these essentials in suburban areas which increases their encounters with humans.
People leaving pet food or garbage out at night will attract wild animals, including among others, coyotes. Coyotes generally feed on small mammals such as mice, squirrels, and rabbits, but they are opportunistic and will feed on a wide variety of sources. They are known to eat fruits, plants, insects and occasionally livestock or small pets when other food is scarce.
Coyotes are territorial, preferring to stay in one general area. When neighbors report coyote sightings, it is generally the same small group of coyote rather than a large number of coyotes.
Coyotes are considered scavengers and can be hunted year round in Ohio by any method. However, while the law in Ohio is fairly lenient on the hunting of coyotes with the appropriate license, the Village of Evendale has an ordinance forbidding the hunting of animals (618.14 EMC) as well as an ordinance prohibiting the discharge of a firearm within the Municipality (672.14). The Evendale Police Department does not support or endorse the discharge of a firearm anywhere in the Village for the purpose of killing a coyote and will apply the ordinances appropriately.
The ODNR suggests that persons encountering coyotes be aggressive, challenging them, and making noise, so that the coyote perceives the person as a threat. If you see a coyote on your property and you are not capable of scaring it off, you may call the police department at 563-2249 and we will respond to the area and assess the situation. The ODNR does not routinely respond to reports of coyotes but will suggest the names of “nuisance” trappers to persons interested in that avenue.
Residents with questions as to their issues with coyotes are invited to call the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (937)372-9261 or log onto their website.
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