Sick Coyote Found Wandering Around Newton Euthanized

NEWTON, MA — The sick coyote that was spotted wandering around Auburndale and West Newton earlier this month has been euthanized, police said.

On Sept. 13, a resident reported to Newton police that the coyote was on their property. Officers responded and found that the coyote appeared to be disoriented and suffering from severe mange and an open wound on its back.

“One week prior, Massachusetts Environmental Police advised to leave the sick coyote alone if it was still mobile but humane euthanasia would be required if it got worse and if the animal could be isolated,” police said in a statement.

“The coyote appeared to be immobile and its health had significantly declined in the last week,” they added. "It was determined humane euthanasia was the best course of action based on the totality of the circumstances."

Mange is extremely contagious to other wildlife, pets, and humans, police said. Although, some wildlife sometimes can manage to survive with mange, severe cases can cause significant discomfort and secondary effects such as open wounds. Harsh weather conditions and infections are the most common causes of death for these animals.