It’s that time of year again (apparently)…
Around January-March there are often coyote sightings reported in Central Park (just see examples here and here), and this year is no different! Just this past weekend, a coyote was seen by multiple New Yorkers near the Central Park Reservoir. [featured image source: Caleb Woods on Unsplash, not pictured in Central Park]
The news was first reported by nature Twitter account Manhattan Bird Alert, which joked that he could be trying to spot the rare Snowy Owl that has been hunting in the Park for the past couple weeks! In the Twitter thread about the appearance, users wondered if the coyote could be a threat to the owl, but the bird experts responded that it knows to be on the lookout for predators like coyotes and wolves and evade them.
A coyote was seen in Central Park strolling west of the Reservoir late Saturday evening, report @MendozaNotes and @ProfSimson, perhaps also trying to catch a glimpse of the rare Snowy Owl. pic.twitter.com/OvYe8fA5y2
— Manhattan Bird Alert (@BirdCentralPark) February 8, 2021
Central Park then added that the creatures are have actually been seen in NYC for almost 30 years, multiple times in the Park, and to make sure to give it space it you spot it.
Coyotes have been present in the City for about 30 years and have been spotted in Central Park. If you see one, please maintain a safe distance.
Please visit our site to learn more on how to coexist safely with coyotes: https://t.co/XVnr7oesLc https://t.co/wNdc5QRTB2— Central Park (@CentralParkNYC) February 8, 2021
And as we mentioned in our coverage of last year’s sightings:
The NYC Parks website urges people to not panic if they see a coyote, emphasizing that most coyotes are not dangerous to people. However, you should certainly report any sightings through Wildlife NYC here, and any physical contact with one should be called into 911.
If you’re nervous about crossing paths with one of these canines during your next trip to the park, here are their five tips for coexisting with coyotes:
- Do Not Feed Coyotes. Keeping coyotes wild is the key to coexistence. Their life and your safety depend upon coyotes remaining naturally wary of people.
- Remove Attractants. Store food, pet food, and garbage in animal proof containers. Do not leave food or garbage behind in a park.
- Supervise Pets. Walk dogs on a leash and keep cats inside for safety.
- Keep Coyotes Wary. If you are approached, act big and make loud noises until the coyote retreats.
- Appreciate Coyotes. From a distance. Stay at least 150 feet (45 meters) or more from the animal.