City officials in Wildwood have issued a public‑safety advisory urging residents to stop feeding coyotes after a recent increase in sightings of adult animals and their pups in back‑bay and yard areas of the community.
The notice, released in early September 2026, explains that feeding wildlife can draw animals closer to homes, raising the risk of conflict and endangering both people and the animals themselves. Officials stress that coyotes are naturally wary of humans and that providing food can alter that behavior.
Residents have reported seeing coyotes moving through neighborhoods, often near back‑bay sections and residential yards. The presence of pups alongside adults suggests that breeding activity is occurring within the city limits, prompting officials to act quickly.
Wildwood’s public‑safety team recommends several steps: keep garbage secured, remove outdoor pet food, and avoid leaving food scraps in compost bins. They also advise keeping small pets indoors or supervised, especially during dawn and dusk when coyotes are most active.
The advisory aligns with broader wildlife‑management practices aimed at protecting both humans and animals. By discouraging feeding, the city hopes to maintain the natural wariness coyotes have toward people, reducing the likelihood of aggressive encounters.
Officials will monitor the situation and may adjust strategies if sightings continue to rise. Community members are encouraged to report coyote activity through established channels so that authorities can track patterns and respond appropriately.
The warning serves as a reminder that coexistence with wildlife requires responsible behavior from residents. By following the guidance, Wildwood aims to keep neighborhoods safe while allowing coyotes to remain a part of the local ecosystem without unnecessary human interference.