According to the city, some residents have reported coyote sightings on Mercer Island recently and have asked for more information. Coyotes are regulated by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), not the city.

Coyote attacks on humans are extremely rare, according to the WDFW, which noted that no such case had been documented in this state until 2006. Coyotes, however, can be interested in small pets and chickens – owners should be vigilant, use fencing, and not leave excess pet food outside. Garbage and compost should also be covered securely, and fallen fruit collected promptly.

Coyotes should never be intentionally fed because they will lose their fear of humans, and may even decide to approach small children, according to the WDFW. Since coyotes exist in all corners of the state, and even in downtown Seattle, the WDFW says that simple trapping and relocation is not effective.

For more information, visit https://wdfw.wa.gov/species-habitats/species/canis-latrans.