Coyotes Spotted In Morris Plains Area, Officials Warn

MORRIS PLAINS, NJ — Local officials are warning that coyotes have been spotted in Morris Plains.

According to Morris Plains Mayor Jason Karr, coyotes have been spotted in the area, and the township has been working with the NJ Fish and Wildlife to keep residents informed.

Coyotes typically are around 20 to 25 pounds, but some can grow as big as 50 pounds. The canine resembles a small German shepherd, except with a long snout and bushy, black-tipped tail, experts say.

Coyotes, generally, are very shy and do their best to avoid human interactions, officials say. They most often hunt for small animals such as squirrels, insects, and birds.

However, there have been cases of coyotes being aggressive against humans and pets, especially when sick with diseases like rabies. Several people and animals had aggressive interactions with sick coyotes in North Jersey over the last few weeks.

Morris Plains officials have provided a list of tips to avoid coyote interactions:

• Secure your trash: Keep garbage cans tightly closed and avoid leaving bags or food waste outdoors where coyotes can access them.
• Remove attractants: Don’t leave pet food outside overnight.
• Supervise pets: Always keep dogs on a leash, especially near wooded or brushy areas. Stay extra alert during dawn and dusk when coyotes are most active.
• Protect small pets: Don’t leave small dogs or cats unsupervised outside, even in fenced yards—coyotes can jump fences.
• Avoid feeding wildlife: Feeding coyotes (even unintentionally) causes them to lose fear of humans, increasing risk for everyone.
• Make your presence known: If you encounter a coyote, make yourself look big, wave your arms, and use a firm, loud voice. This technique helps reinforce their natural wariness.
• Walk confidently: Stick to well-lit paths and avoid thick brush when walking at night or early morning.
• Install deterrents: Motion-activated lights, sprinklers, or noise devices can discourage coyotes from approaching your property

NJ Fish and Wildlife recommends leaving coyotes alone whenever possible, as they usually will not pose a threat.

If you encounter a coyote, it’s best to give it space, don’t be aggressive, and don’t attempt to feed it. They will typically move along on their own after looking around curiously, experts say.

NJ Fish and Wildlife also reiterates the importance of not relocating coyotes. If their territorial and social behavior is disrupted, it can cause more environmental issues.

“As long as they are not approaching people or acting unusually, they are not considered a danger,” experts said.

Those who encounter a coyote they believe is sick and/or aggressive should call 911.