East Hartford Police Department’s Animal Control Office Issues Warning About Coyote Sightings

East Hartford, CT - There has been a recent increase of sightings of coyotes in the area and region. Some have appeared aggressive, particularly in the School Street and Goodwin Street areas. Although they are rarely a threat to humans, they can injure and kill pets. The Office of East Hartford Animal Control has been working with the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to address these concerns by setting traps in the area. In the meantime, we ask all residents to please be vigilant and contact the Animal Control's office at 860-291-7572 if you encounter a coyote. 

Residents are advised to take the following steps in an incident they see a coyote:

Do Not Feed Coyotes! This includes leaving food for outdoor / feral cats, food scraps, and unsecured garbage bins. Clean up under bird feeders to not attract mice, squirrels, etc. which are a food source to coyotes.

Scare Them Away! Called “hazing,” if you see a coyote; shout, bangs pots, or shake a metal can filled with gravel or pennies. If a coyote enters your yard, throw a stick at it or spray it with a garden hose. 

Keep Small Animals Inside! Cats and small dogs can become a meal for a hungry coyote. Supervise your small pet when it is outside. Consider installing exterior lighting and fencing for protection.

When Walking your leashed dog, if you see a coyote, do NOT run. Bring your dog close to your side and leave the area. Do not turn around, back away. Dogs can sometimes trigger territorial aggression in coyotes.

Rabies can be transmitted by any mammal, including coyotes. If you see any mammal that is unable to walk, is staggering, displaying extreme lethargy, or appears “drunk” call the East Hartford Police Department immediately at 860-528-4401. Healthy looking animals behaving normally seen during the day is not an indicator of rabies. 

For further information regarding this advisory contact the East Hartford Animal Control at 860-291-7572.