Wildwood police announced on September 3 that they have received a sharp increase in reports of coyotes roaming the town and are urging residents to keep a safe distance from the animals. The department emphasized that feeding wildlife, including coyotes, can encourage them to become accustomed to human presence and increase the risk of dangerous encounters.
Officials from the Wildwood police force and town authorities said the surge in sightings has prompted a community safety notice. They reminded the public that coyotes are naturally wary of humans but can become bold when they associate people with food. The advisory stresses that any interaction, even brief, should be avoided, and that residents should secure garbage, pet food, and other attractants.
The warning comes as part of an ongoing effort to protect both public safety and the local wildlife population. By discouraging feeding, the town hopes to maintain the natural behavior of coyotes and reduce the likelihood of conflicts. Police officers are prepared to respond to incidents involving the animals and will document each report to monitor the situation.
Residents are asked to report any coyote activity to the Wildwood police department, providing details such as location and time of the sighting. The information will help authorities assess patterns and determine if additional measures, such as targeted public education or wildlife management actions, are needed. The department reiterated that coyotes generally avoid humans but can become a concern when they are habituated to food sources.
The community notice underscores the importance of coexistence with local wildlife while prioritizing safety. Wildwood officials encourage citizens to remain vigilant, keep pets on leashes during walks, and avoid leaving food outdoors. By following these guidelines, residents can help ensure that both people and coyotes continue to share the town’s environment without incident.