On September 1, 2026, Wildwood officials announced a rise in coyote sightings in the Back Bay area and posted warning signs to alert the community.
The advisory notes that coyotes have been observed more frequently in residential neighborhoods adjacent to the bay, prompting concern for the safety of residents, pets, and children.
Officials recommend several precautions: keep pets on leashes, supervise children while they play outdoors, avoid feeding wildlife, secure garbage containers, and report any coyote activity to local authorities.
Warning signs placed at park entrances, trailheads, and along main streets serve as a visual reminder of the advisory. The signs include brief guidance on how to reduce encounters, advise keeping doors and windows closed at night, and list contact information for reporting incidents.
Wildlife experts explain that coyotes are adaptable animals that may be drawn to urban edges where food sources are readily available. While generally shy, they can become bold if they associate humans with easy meals.
The town’s public safety department will continue to monitor the situation and work with regional wildlife agencies to assess the pattern of sightings. Monitoring will include periodic patrols and reviewing any reports received from the public. Residents are encouraged to follow the posted recommendations until the advisory is lifted.
The current wildlife safety advisory remains in effect for the foreseeable future, aiming to minimize risk to the community while allowing coexistence with the natural wildlife that inhabits the Back Bay ecosystem.