 Tue, Jul 08, 2008 05:40 PM
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2008-04-25  Duluth | Metro coyote sightings increase
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May 01, 2008 | 09:42 AM
The distinctive call of the coyote or "song dog" can be heard all across Georgia, and increasingly so in the backyards of metro Atlanta neighborhoods.
While coyotes closely resemble a small dog in appearance, the distinctive characteristics that set them apart are upright, pointed ears, a pointed snout, low forehead, a mottled color fur pattern ranging from black to reddish-blonde and a bushy tail that is generally carried straight out below the level of its back.
The coyote's unique ability to adapt and thrive wherever food is available contributes to today's increased observation of coyotes in urban settings. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources' Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) encourages residents to educate themselves and take the proper precautions essential in co-existing with coyotes.
Though the coyote's principal diet typically consists of small rodents and fruit, they are characterized as "opportunistic" and will prey on small domestic animals if given the opportunity.
Because of this, small house pets – especially cats – young or small livestock and poultry are vulnerable and susceptible prey. WRD advises landowners and homeowners to heed the following precautions to ensure the safety of their animals:
• Take pets indoors during the night, the coyote's primary hunting time. In addition to coyotes, small pets may fall prey to free-roaming dogs and great horned owls.
• If the pet must be kept outside, install fencing and flood lights to discourage predators.
• Never, under any circumstances, feed a coyote.
• Keep items such as grills, pet food or bird feeders off-limits.
• Make trashcans inaccessible. Keep lids securely fastened or store trashcans in the garage until trash day.
For more information regarding coyotes, visit the WRD website at www.georgiawildlife.com.
- www.gwinnettherald.com
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