The Village has put up a primer on coyote behavior that will be of interest to local pet-owners and walkers looking to avoid a confrontation with the wild critters, which in recent years have proliferated in the Western suburbs.
The information was posted last week on the recommendation of the Environmental Concerns Commission, which reviewed the coyote issue in January at the request of the village council, said Doug Kozlowski, village communications director. Others have also raised the issue with the council in recent months.
While there haven’t been any local coyote attacks or a discernible increase in the number of coyotes in Downers Grove, the ECC advised the village to increase public awareness of the dog-like animals, which “have pointed ears, yellow eyes, a slender muzzle and a drooping bushy tail with a black tip,” according to the Village Web site.
“They are usually a grayish brown with reddish-colored fur behind the ears and around the face,” the site states. “A study by the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County’s Willowbrook Wildlife Center reports that coyotes in DuPage County average about 25 pounds, though their heavy coats may make them look larger.”
Coyotes apparently pose the most danger to domestic animals when in mating season, which runs from February through April. The village recommends keeping on a leash during this time as male coyotes are more likely to attack even large dogs during this time.
As for residents who might encounter one of the animals, the Village recommends they shout, clap or throw something in the coyote’s direction.
“Acting aggressively helps re-instill a fear of humans in coyotes,” the site says.
Residents are also encouraged to call 911 if an animal appears threatening or the Willowbook Wildlife Center at 630-942-6200 for further information.
They eat geese, right?
And rabbits too.
Do they find chipmunks tasty?