Wildwood officials issued a public safety warning early in September 2026, urging residents to refrain from feeding coyotes as the community prepares for the upcoming Labor Day weekend. The advisory comes after a noticeable increase in coyote sightings across the Jersey Shore, prompting local authorities to remind the public of the risks associated with habituating wildlife to human food sources.
The warning emphasizes that providing food to coyotes can cause the animals to lose their natural fear of people. When coyotes become accustomed to easy meals, they are more likely to approach neighborhoods, parks, and beaches, increasing the potential for confrontations with humans and pets. Officials stressed that such behavior can alter the animals' natural hunting patterns and may lead to more frequent encounters in residential areas.
Local residents have reported more frequent observations of coyotes during the past weeks, noting that the animals appear farther inland and closer to populated zones than in previous years. While the sightings have not yet resulted in any reported injuries, the trend has raised concerns among community members and municipal leaders alike. The surge in observations mirrors a broader regional pattern, with multiple towns along the Jersey Shore documenting similar increases in coyote activity.
In response, Wildwood officials are advising the public to secure trash containers, avoid leaving pet food outdoors, and to educate children about the importance of not approaching or feeding wildlife. The guidance also includes recommendations to keep pets on leashes when outdoors and to report any aggressive coyote behavior to local authorities.
The advisory aims to maintain the safety of both residents and the coyote population by preventing unnecessary habituation. By discouraging feeding, officials hope to preserve the natural wariness coyotes have toward humans, reducing the likelihood of future incidents as the summer season concludes and the community transitions into the holiday weekend.
The message will be reinforced through signage at beach access points and community centers throughout Wildwood, ensuring that the caution reaches both longtime residents and seasonal visitors before Labor Day festivities begin.