BETHALTO, Ill. – Fall is an active time for coyotes for coyotes, and in recent weeks, there have even been several sightings reported in the Metro East.
The Bethalto Police Department says they have received multiples calls for coyotes sightings recently, especially on the northeast side of town.
Police warn that Bethalto Animal Control does not set traps for coyotes and that trapping is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. As a result, sightings could be a little more common this time of year.
So what should you do if you encounter a coyote? The Illinois DNR says do not run if a coyote approaches you. Instead, male yourself appear larger by telling, standing up straight and waving your arms. At last resort, you could also throw something at a coyote to try to scare it away.
Officials also remind the public to not leave small pets unattended outside, especially at night, for prolonged periods of time.
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