It's Coyote Mating Season, So Watch Your Pets: Animal Control

ANDOVER, MA — It's coyote mating season, and that means residents should be extra careful with their pets, Andover Animal Control said Monday.

"Mating season in Massachusetts runs from mid-January until about March which means coyotes will be out and about searching for mates," Animal Control Officer Katie Kozikowski said on Facebook. "You may see coyotes more than you usually do during the day in wooded areas as well as in neighborhoods and back yards."

Coyote attacks on humans are very rare, but attacks on pets are more common, so residents should keep a close eye on their furry friends.

"Cats should be kept inside (if possible), especially during low light hours such as early morning and early evening," the officer said. "Dogs of all sizes should be kept on a leash and closely monitored when out in the yard."

Off-leash dogs in particular are vulnerable to attack, as they can be seen by coyotes as a threat or as competition, according to the post.

"As pet owners it is our responsibility to take care of our pets and keep them out of harms way and it is not abnormal for coyotes to protect themselves if threatened by an off leash dog," Kozikowski continued. "In addition, small dogs can be seen as an easy meal for coyotes even in back yards - coyotes can easily clear a 6 foot fence. It is recommended that you go outside with your dog, but before letting your dog out and while he/she is out there, make noise to scare off any coyotes that may be in the area. Even the presence of a person in an enclosed yard may deter a coyote from entering."

Anyone with questions should reach out to Kozikowski at animalcontrol@andoverps.net.