For Release: August 4, 1998

Contact: Lori Suprock 222-1267 or 789-0281

PROVIDENCE - Because of heightened public interest, the Department of Environmental Management's Division of Fish and Wildlife has prepared an informational fact sheet about Rhode Island's coyotes.

The Division receives an average of three calls per day from people who have sighted coyotes and are curious about them. Recent news stories about two incidents in Massachusetts involving coyotes have further increased public interest.

Lori Suprock, a principal wildlife biologist for DEM's Division of Fish and Wildlife says that coyotes have been reported in all Rhode Island communities except Jamestown and Block Island, and sightings are common. Scent post studies done by DEM in the mid '80s indicated an estimated coyote population of 400. Their numbers are higher now, based on the number of reports of sightings and road kills. They were first established in the state in the mid '70s.

Although attacks on humans are extremely rare - the only confirmed Rhode Island coyote bite was the result of an attempt to hand-feed the animal - coyotes are opportunists and may sometimes prey on cats, and to a lesser extent, small dogs. They tend to run from humans, who should assert their dominance by shouting, or by spraying them with a high pressure garden hose.

Homeowners can protect their domestic pets by discouraging coyotes using scare tactics such as loud noises from horns or by shouting. Successful tactics also include marking property edges with ammonia scent or concentrated urine, available at sporting goods stores. Fencing will also help prevent access.

Eliminating food sources such as garbage and pet food is essential in discouraging coyotes and other wildlife from your property. Cat owners should keep pets indoors or limit their time outside to daylight hours. Coyotes are primarily active at dawn, dusk, and during the night, although those with young are frequently seen during daylight hours.

DEM's Division of Fish and Wildlife is seeking coyote sighting reports, and can be reached at 222-1267 or 789-0281. The brochure, Understanding Rhode Island's Coyotes, is available from that office, or from DEM's Office of Technical and Customer Assistance at 222-6800. It is also available on DEM's web site at www.dem.state.ri.us.