This time of year coyote sightings are on the rise, but if you see one there’s no need to panic.
“It’s coming up on mating season. February is a time where they start looking for mates if they don’t already have established mates. So the coyotes may be more active. There’s also less leaves on the trees so it’s likely we’re able to see them more often than during the growing season or when we’re out amongst the forest preserve,” explained Erik Neidy, director of natural resources at the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County.
Remember that if you see a coyote, either at the forest preserve or elsewhere, never feed them or approach them, and maintain the space between yourself and the animal. Be prepared to shoo a coyote away if it does move toward you.
It’s also recommended to closely supervise small pets when outside and keep all pets on leashes to avoid problematic interactions with coyotes.
Meanwhile an alleged cougar sighting at a Glendale Heights forest preserve has yet to be proven; but has sparked interest in more visitors to go explore the wildlife at the preserves locations.
Naperville News 17’s Christine Lena reports.
