Police release warning after spotting a coyote pup in Allegheny County

ASPINWALL, Pa. — Aspinwall police officers spotted a coyote pup in the upper parts of the borough while on patrol Monday night.

Police are asking people to become educated about these animals and the do’s and don’ts when encountering a coyote.

The following are things you can do if you spot a coyote in your neighborhood or near your home:

• Frighten coyotes with loud noises.
• Fear of humans is important for coyote survival.
• Keep garbage in a tightly sealed container.
• In your yard, remove pet food, fallen fruit and spilled seed beneath bird feeders.
• Stay with your pets while outdoors, unless pets are in a secured, covered kennel.
• Do not allow pets to run loose. Keep pets on a leash.

Coyotes are usually skittish around humans and typically try to avoid people whenever possible.

If you encounter a coyote:

• Never feed or attempt to tame a coyote.
• Do not turn your back on a coyote or run away from a coyote.
• If approached, make loud noises and make yourself look big. If this fails, throw rocks or other objects.
• Always keep yourself between the coyote and small children.

If you see any type of animal you are not sure about, police advise that you dial 911.

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