Coyotes

Since we are talking animals, I'll close on this recent Common Council topic...

Coyotes are a concern for our pets and our younger children, yet like most wild animals, they do not like us much either.  For the most part, we are bigger then them, so they prefer not to bother us.  Even still, we must ensure they do not get too comfortable around us or they will expand their territory and increase the risk of dangerous confrontation.  Our parks and relatively large yards encourage all types of wildlife and, for the most part, this is a good thing.  I have seen in my yard deer, turkeys, turtles... the list goes on.   I see more geese in my yard than I would like; they are not friendly neighbors.  From my limited dealings with coyotes, and my frequent dealings with geese, the same thing works:  ensure they know they are not welcome.   My dog works best for the geese, while for the coyotes I scare them off.  It is our responsibility to respect these animals yet protect ourselves.  I feel we all need to take part in doing this with the city's guidance on how to best keep coyotes only where they are welcomed.