The City of Punta Gorda has issued a warning about coyote sightings. Please read the following, released by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the University of Florida. These are their tips for coexisting with coyotes.
- First and foremost, do not attempt to touch or feed a coyote;
- They can attack pets, so keep a watchful eye on your dog or cat if it is outdoors and keep them on a leash;
- Yell or throw rocks to scare it away. As with bears, a small portable air horn or whistle works great at scaring coyotes away. Remember to make a lot of noise if you encounter a coyote;
- Don’t leave pet food and garbage outdoors;
- Don’t turn your back on a coyote, ignore it or run away;
- Never move towards it, or corner it where it can’t run away; and
- If you come across a coyote and feel it is a threat, please call the Punta Gorda Police Department at (941) 639-4111 or 911 if it is an emergency.
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