New Coyote Advisory Issued In Bergen County

BERGEN COUNTY, NJ — After several coyote attacks in Bergen County last month, including one that killed a family dog, Bergen County released updated guidance this week addressing coyotes and pets.

SNOW FELL IN NORTH JERSEY ON TUESDAY: Watch Video Here

Some Bergen County residents were frustrated last month after the county Sheriff's Office reminded them that the majority of coyotes don't bother residents. "Don't be alarmed," the office wrote in an advisory. "They’re a natural part of our environment and usually keep their distance."

At least two coyotes captured after attacks were determined to have rabies, a fatal disease.

"Don't be alarmed? Are you serious," wrote one commenter in response, on Facebook last month.

"I'm not afraid of coyotes," wrote another. "I'm afraid of coyotes with rabies."

A coyote had killed a woman's small dog in their yard in Ho-Ho-Kus in October. And earlier that same week, two coyote attacks were reported in the nearby towns of Saddle River and Woodcliff Lake.

Although rabies is considered rare in coyotes, two of the coyotes recently captured by police in Saddle River have tested positive for the virus, which is nearly almost fatal when transmitted to humans or other animals. People who are bitten or scratched must always seek treatment quickly. READ MORE: Coyote Attacks Woman, Dog In Woodcliff Lake

No new coyote attacks have been reported so far in November. The new advisory was posted by several police departments on Monday to give additional guidance to residents, particularly regarding pets.

Updated Advisory Addresses Pets

Bergen County's Department of Health Services said they were issuing the public health advisory because of "increased coyote activity."

"While coyotes generally avoid humans, it is important for residents to take precautions to prevent conflicts and protect their pets," they said.

They added, "Coyotes are wild members of the dog family that closely resemble a small German Shepherd, except for their long snouts and bushy, black-tipped tails. A distinguishing feature of the coyote is that they hold their tails below a horizontal position while standing, walking, and running."

The Glen Rock Police Department was among the departments posting the advisory on social media on Monday.

"At this point we luckily have not had any recent issues," noted Chief Dean Ackermann.

Recommended Safety Measures

• Do not approach or feed coyotes.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Supervise small pets when they are outdoors and keep them on a leash.
• Secure garbage cans, remove potential food sources, and clear overgrown brush.
• If a coyote gets too close, make loud noises, yell, and clap. Do not turn your back and run.
• Reports of coyote activity during the daytime, or sightings of aggressive, sick, or injured coyotes, should be directed to 9-1-1 and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection 24/7 hotline at 1-877-WARNDEP (927-6337).

The full advisory is here:

More coyote advice from the state of New Jersey is here.

Find out about the signs and symptoms of rabies here.

READ MORE: Coyote Euthanized After 2 Attacks In Saddle River