Coyotes Spotted in Wildwood Crest, Police Urge Caution

WILDWOOD CREST - Our community is being asked to stay vigilant following recent coyote sightings in Wildwood Crest, according to local police.

Wildwood Crest police are encouraging everyone to remain aware of their surroundings and exercise caution, particularly when spending time outside with young children or pets. The sightings serve as a reminder that these wild animals have adapted to living throughout our state.

"Residents and visitors are encouraged to be aware of their surroundings and take precautions, especially when outside with pets or children," Wildwood Crest police said in a statement.

While coyote sightings may seem unusual to some residents, these adaptable animals have established themselves across New Jersey over the past several decades. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection notes that the first documented coyote sighting in our state occurred in Lambertville in 1939. Since then, the animals have been confirmed in all 21 counties.

Eastern coyotes differ from their western counterparts in notable ways. According to the NJDEP, coyotes found in our region are larger than those in western states. Their coats display a range of colors including blonde, red, and black. These opportunistic feeders consume whatever food sources are available, from small prey like rabbits, mice, and birds to young deer and carrion.

Protecting Your Family and Pets

The NJDEP emphasizes that residents should never provide food to coyotes under any circumstances. Feeding these animals only encourages them to lose their natural wariness of humans and increases the likelihood of problematic encounters.

To minimize the chances of coyote visits to your property, environmental officials recommend removing brush and dense vegetation from around your home. Installing motion-detecting lights can also help deter nighttime visits from wildlife.

If you do encounter a coyote, the NJDEP advises using hazing techniques to reinforce the animal's natural fear of people. Creating loud noises, activating sirens, or spraying garden hoses toward the animal can effectively discourage it from lingering in residential areas. Most importantly, always supervise children and pets when they're outside.

Any coyote displaying aggressive behavior or appearing sick should be reported immediately to the DEP hotline at 877-WARN-DEP. These situations require professional assessment and may indicate a public safety concern that needs prompt attention.