The recent reports of two coyote attacks in nearby Rye NY have raised concerns about living with Coyotes here in Irvington. Coyote attacks are rare but residents should be aware of precautions that can be taken to avoid conflicts and protect their property.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation offers these steps you can take to reduce/prevent coyote problems from occurring.

· Do not feed coyotes
· If you see a coyote, be aggressive in your behavior - make loud noises, wave your arms, throw sticks and stones.
· Do not allow pets to run free.
· Do not feed pets outside.
· Make any garbage inaccessible to coyotes and other animals.
· Eliminate availability of bird seed. Coyotes are attracted to the concentration of birds and rodents that come to feeders. If you do feed birds, clean up waste seed and spillage.
· Fencing your yard may deter coyotes. The fence should be tight to the ground, preferably extending six inches below ground level.
· Remove brush and tall grass from around your property to reduce protective cover for coyotes
· Regulated hunting and trapping increases the "fear" coyotes have towards people.
· Ask your neighbors to follow these same steps.

Find additional information about coyote conflicts at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/6971.html

If you have concerns about coyotes in your neighborhood contact the Irvington Police Department at 591-8080.

Address/Location
Irvington Police Department
85 Main St.
Irvington, NY 10533

Contact Emergency: 9-1-1

Thank you to the New Castle Police Department for this helpful, concise summary.