Dear Morris Plains Residents,
We hope you are all doing well. As we and our police department are aware, there have been recent coyote sightings in different areas of Morris Plains. After speaking with Animal Control and New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife, we want to share some helpful information and reassure everyone that coyotes are a native species in New Jersey and an important part of our local ecosystem.
Coyotes are generally shy, cautious animals, but they can also be curious, especially when exploring new areas or following scents. This curiosity is normal and does not mean they are being aggressive. In most cases, coyotes prefer to keep their distance from people and will avoid interaction whenever possible. Their primary focus is on small prey and navigating their territory—not engaging with residents.
Basic Coyote & Human Safety Tips
•Secure your trash: Keep garbage cans tightly closed and avoid leaving bags or food waste outdoors where coyotes can access them.
•Remove attractants: Don’t leave pet food outside overnight.
•Supervise pets: Always keep dogs on a leash, especially near wooded or brushy areas. Stay extra alert during dawn and dusk when coyotes are most active.
•Protect small pets: Don’t leave small dogs or cats unsupervised outside, even in fenced yards—coyotes can jump fences.
•Avoid feeding wildlife: Feeding coyotes (even unintentionally) causes them to lose fear of humans, increasing risk for everyone.
•Make your presence known: If you encounter a coyote, make yourself look big, wave your arms, and use a firm, loud voice. This technique helps reinforce their natural wariness.
•Walk confidently: Stick to well-lit paths and avoid thick brush when walking at night or early morning.
•Install deterrents: Motion-activated lights, sprinklers, or noise devices can discourage coyotes from approaching your property.
The New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife advises that the best approach is to leave them alone and give them space. When unprovoked, coyotes typically pose no threat.
It’s also important to know that relocating coyotes is not recommended. They are social, territorial, pack-oriented animals, and moving them can disrupt their natural behavior and create more issues. As long as they are not approaching people or acting unusually, they are not considered a danger.
What to Do if You See a Coyote
- Stay calm and give it plenty of space.
- Understand that a coyote may pause and look around out of curiosity, not hostility.
- Do not approach, feed, or attempt to scare it aggressively.
- In most cases, the coyote will move along on its own.
When to Call for Help
Never hesitate to call and let us know about any sightings. If you observe a coyote displaying signs of aggression, unusual behavior, or potential rabies, please call 911 immediately so authorities can respond appropriately.
We appreciate everyone’s cooperation and understanding as we continue to coexist with the wildlife that shares our community. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out.
Thank you,
Mayor Jason Karr
