Ramapo Reservation Reopens Following Coyote Attacks

MAHWAH, NJ – Ramapo Valley County Reservation reopened Monday, more than a week after a pair of coyote attacks closed the 4,000-acre park.

In a message posted on the county’s website, officials said, “We are pleased to announce that The Ramapo Valley County Reservation in Mahwah is now reopened. Park enthusiasts should always remain vigilant as they enjoy our beautiful natural preserves. We welcome you to enjoy this and our many other parks and recreation throughout the county as well.”

After a woman and dog were injured in a separate coyote attacks on Oct. 5, authorities closed down the popular park. It is not known if the same coyote is responsible for the two attacks.

The county said the reservation was off limits for the duration of the week or until the coyote was captured.

On Monday, county spokesman Michael Pagan did not confirm if any animals were caught during the closure.

The attacks are just the latest in several local incidents involving coyotes.

In August, a Mahwah woman was bitten several times by a coyote but she was ultimately able to force the coyote away by striking it with a baseball bat, police said.

A few weeks later, a Wyckoff family's Chihuahua was killed Tuesday night after a coyote snatched the pup from a backyard and carried it away, according to police.

Safety tips, according to the New Jersey State Division of Fish and Wildlife

• If you encounter a coyote, be as big and loud as possible.
• Do not run or turn your back.
• Make sure garbage cans are secured and no food is left out to attract coyotes.
• Do not leave small pets outside.
• If residents spot a coyote, call 911 immediately.