The Town of North Attleborough and the North Attleborough Animal Control Department are urging residents to remain vigilant of their surroundings due to an uptick of coyote activity and an increase of reported coyote sightings around the Amvet school area and throughout the town.
While coyotes typically will not approach people, residents are encouraged to be extra attentive to their surroundings, especially with pets, as coyotes seek out food sources for their young and bulk up before winter. Coyotes are opportunistic feeders, meaning they will feed on whatever is readily available and easy to obtain. To ensure a safe experience for everyone, keeping a close eye on small children, pets, and tiny dogs and cats is advisable. While coyotes are most active during dawn and dusk, occasional daytime sightings can happen and usually do not indicate any issues with the animal. Being aware of your surroundings can help everyone enjoy their outdoor activities safely.
Tips for preventing conflicts with coyotes:
- Remove outdoor feeding sources, including bird feeders and compost piles, around your yard. Do not feed or water pets outdoors.
- Keep all trash bins secured and/or indoors.
- Scan your property for coyotes before taking your dog outside.
- Illuminate your yard if you take your dog out at night.
- Keep dogs leashed and supervised whenever they are outside, especially at dawn and dusk.
- Keep cats indoors or in a secure outdoor enclosure.
- Supervise young children when they are playing outside.
If you are approached by a coyote:
- Do not run. Turn and face the coyote, wave your arms and shout loudly.
- Haze the coyote – make noise, bang objects together, utilize an ear horn, whistle or other loud object. Spray water from a hose or shine bright lights toward the coyote.
- Throw objects towards, (but not at), the coyote.
For more information about coyotes, including common questions and natural history, please visit this link provided by the Massachusetts Department of Fisheries and Wildlife: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/frequently-asked-questions-about-coyotes
Residents with concerns or questions about coyotes can contact the Animal Control department at