Wildwood officials issued a public warning on September 2, 2026, asking residents and visitors to refrain from feeding coyotes after a recent rise in sightings across the Wildwoods. The advisory comes as the community prepares for the upcoming Labor Day weekend, a period when outdoor activity typically increases.
The warning emphasizes that feeding wildlife can lead to animals becoming habituated to human presence, a situation that may jeopardize public safety. By discouraging the practice, officials aim to keep coyotes wary of people and reduce the likelihood of close encounters.
Authorities noted that the spike in coyote sightings prompted the advisory, although specific numbers of encounters were not disclosed. The message was directed to anyone spending time outdoors, whether in residential neighborhoods, parks, or other public spaces throughout Wildwood, New Jersey.
The timing of the announcement aligns with the city’s effort to ensure a safe environment for the holiday weekend, when families and tourists are expected to gather in outdoor settings. Officials reiterated that avoiding the provision of food, whether intentional or accidental, is a key step in preventing coyotes from associating humans with easy meals.
Residents are encouraged to secure garbage, keep pet food indoors, and report any unusual coyote behavior to local authorities. The advisory does not indicate any immediate threat but serves as a precautionary measure to maintain community safety and protect the natural behavior of the local wildlife.
The city plans to continue monitoring coyote activity throughout the holiday period and will issue further guidance if conditions change.