The URL can be used to link to this page

Home My WebLink About2018-02-15 PACKET 08.2.A.MCottage 'sGrove City of Cottage Grove �h,ePride an6V,OsperityMeet Public Safety — Police/Fire/EMS Memo To: Public Services Commission From: Deputy Director of Public Safety Peter J. Koerner Date: January 12, 2018 Subject: PRESENTATION — LIVING WITH COYOTES At the December 20, 2017, City Council meeting, Council Member Dennis did bring up residents' increasing concerns with coyotes in town. Public Safety was requested to research and work with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to determine an action plan for residents who have growing concerns about coyotes near their pets, children, and/or near the walking trails in the City. After contacting numerous agencies and communities, we found that the coyotes are present metro -wide and Cottage Grove is not unique. There is no official census data on coyotes and there are no "cookie cutter" answers on coyotes. Like other communities, the police department does not deal with wildlife calls unless there is an immediate risk to the public. During the presentation we will provide information on the following: • Hazing tools and techniques • How to identify coyotes • Brief overview of coyote behavior • Overview on: o Police calls on coyotes/sightings o Local hunting areas o Trapping o Education Prior to the presentation Commission members can review the following web pages for additional information. Much of the information will be summarized during the presentation. DNR Coyote Info. http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/Iivingwith wildlife/coyotes/index.html Humane Society Information http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/covotes/tips/hazing guidelines.html?credit=web id145587100 The City of Roseville also conducted a coyote clinic in 2015. You can stream the meeting and presentation. Click on coyote clinic. http://www.ci.roseville.mn.us/492/Animal-Control While there are numerous options, MN DNR recommends education to residents on the importance of policing their yards for potential food sources and frequent hazing are effective techniques for coyotes. Recommendations Requesting Commission comments on an action plan. Urban Coyotes: Minnesota DNR Urban Coyotes Coyotes are wild members of the dog family, intermediate in size between red foxes and wolves. In Minnesota, coyotes average 30 lbs., and stand about 18" high at the shoulders. However, they may appear much larger due to their heavy fur coat, especially in winter. They are gray/brown in color, and somewhat resemble a small German Shepherd dog in appearance. Coyotes in Minnesota are loners, except when families are raising pups. Their primary foods are rabbits and mice, but they are very opportunistic, and will feed on other small mammals, Page 1 of 2 even melons. deer, birds, carrion, and Although coyotes can be found anywhere in Minnesota, distribution and population size is variable. Currently, populations are establishing and increasing in the Twin Cities metro area. Most coyotes avoid people and domestic animals, but occasionally they will kill sheep, turkeys, and calves. They may also raid garbage cans, and kill domestic cats and small dogs. While healthy wild coyotes avoid people, incidents have been reported in Minnesota and other states. Experts believe these incidents are more likely after a coyote has become accustomed to humans, or after being fed by humans. If you are concerned about the presence of coyotes where you live, consider the following do's and don'ts: R• • secure all garbage containers, wildlife feeders, and other food sources to prevent coyote access • confine small dogs and cats in kennels, or supervise them when outside • vaccinate all pets for rabies, distemper, parvo, and other diseases, as recommended by a veterinarian • consider installing coyote -proof fencing • harass (by chasing, shouting, etc.) any coyotes that do not immediately run from people DON'T: do not feed coyotes do not leave pet food outside do not allow cats and small dogs outside, unattended http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/livingwith_wildlife/coyotes/index.html 1/18/2018 Urban Coyotes: Minnesota DNR Page 2 of 2 These simple suggestions should prevent most coyote problems. However, if depredation occurs or aggressive coyote behavior is observed, removal of the coyotes may be necessary. Coyotes are unprotected in Minnesota, and may be taken at any time by shooting or trapping, without a license or permit. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources does not trap, shoot, or relocate coyotes. Where necessary, removal of coyotes is the responsibility of the landowner or tenant. For information on pest control contractors or trapping techniques for coyote removal, contact your local DNR Wildlife office or Conservation Officer. In cities with ordinances prohibiting the use of certain traps and/or firearms, you may need a city permit, or assistance from the city animal control agency. http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/livingwith_wildlife/coyotes/index.html 1/18/2018 Coyote Hazing GUIDELINES How to Haze for Effective Reshaping of Coyote Behavior Generally, coyotes are reclusive animals who avoid human contact. Coyotes who've adapted to urban and suburban environments, however, may realize there are few real threats and approach people or feel safe visiting yards even when people are present. These coyotes have become habituated (lost their fear of humans), likely due to the ready availability of food in our neighborhoods. Sometimes, this food is deliberately provided by people who like to watch wild animals or misguidedly feel they are helping them by offering food. These bold coyotes should not be tolerated or enticed, but given the message that they should not be so brazen. Hazing is a method that uses deterrents to move an animal out of an area or discourages an undesirable behavior or activity. Hazing can help maintain coyotes' fear of humans and deter them from neighborhood spaces such as backyards and playgrounds. HAZING METHODS Using a variety of different hazing tools is critical because coyotes can habituate to individual items, sounds, and actions. ► Yell and wave your arms while approaching the coyote. ► Use noisemakers (e.g. your voice, whistles, air horns, bells, soda cans filled with pennies or dead batteries, pots and pans banged together). ► Use projectiles (e.g. sticks, small rocks, cans, tennis balls, rubber balls). ► Try other repellents (e.g. hoses, water guns with vinegar water, spray bottles with vinegar water, pepper spray, bear repellant, or walking sticks). "GO AWAY COYOTE!" The simplest method of hazing a coyote involves being loud and large Watch this fun video for a demonstration: bi0y/19hkRB2 If a coyote has not been hazed before, he might not immediately run away when you yell at him. If this happens, you might need to walk towards the coyote and increase the intensity of your hazing. If the coyote does run away, he might stop after a distance and look back at THE HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE UNITED STATES REMEMBER... ► NEVER runaway from a coyote! ► If the coyote doesn't leave at first, continue approaching him and/or increase the intensity of your hazing until he runs away. If he runs a short distance away and then stops and looks at you, continue hazing him until he leaves the area completely. ► If a coyote returns after you've successfully hazed him or her, continue to haze the coyote as you did before. It typically takes only one or two times to haze a coyote away for good. ► Contact authorities and do not interact with a coyote whom you suspect of being sick or injured. Although coyotes are skittish by nature and generally aren't aggressive towards people, engaging animals who are sick or injured can result in unpredictable behavior. you. It's important to continue to haze the coyote until he leaves the area completely. You might need to use multiple tactics, such as shaking noisemakers, stomping your feet, and spraying him with a hose to get him to leave. DOG -WALKING TOOLS There are several tools for repelling coyotes that you can carry with you while walking your dog. Of course, remember that you should always walk your dog on a leash. If you see a coyote, either pick up your dog (if possible) or place him or her behind you before hazing the coyote. Then: ► Blow a whistle or air horn at the coyote. ► Squirt a squirt gun at the coyote. ► Yell and wave your arms. ► Use a homemade noisemaker, such as pennies in a sippy cup or soda can (sealed with duct tape). ► Pick up sticks or rocks and throw them towards the coyote. IN YOURYARD Keeping pets and pet food inside is the best way to keep coyotes out of your yard. If you do encounter coyotes, all of the above methods can be used in your yard. First, try the "Go Away Coyote! " method (yell and wave your arms as you approach the coyote). You can also squirt the coyote with your garden hose or a squirt gun or bang pots and pans together. TIPS FOR SUCCESS v/ Hazing is most effective when an individual coyote is hazed by a variety of people using a variety of tools and techniques. v/ A coyote who is being hazed must be able to recognize that the potential threat is coming from a person. Therefore, hiding behind a bush and throwing rocks or hazing from inside your car isn't effective. v/ You can use hazing techniques and tools for one animal or multiple animals. There is usually a dominant animal in the group who will respond, and others will follow her lead. v/ Don't stop hazing after it's successful. Coyotes or their pups could return to their unacceptable habits or behaviors if you stop. v/ Share this information by teaching your family, friends, and neighbors how to haze coyotes too! The more people that get involved in hazing, the more quickly you will see results. For more information and tips, visit our website at humanesociety.org/coyotes. Wr Living with Coyotes Cottage Grove Public Services Commission January 16, 2018 Living with Coyotes •Why are we talking about coyotes? • Coyote Identification • Police calls on coyotes/sightings • Brief overview of coyote behaviors • Hunting/Killing and Removing • Hazing tools and techniques •What is our plan? Why are we talking about coyotes? • We have had an increase in reported sightings of coyotes • Recent concerns posted on social media • Public wants to ensure that we have a safe community • Residents contacting City Council looking for response • Need to discuss a plan of action • Education on living with coyotes Coyotes • Coyotes are wild members of the dog family •Grey/brown in color • Intermediate in size between red foxes and wolves (18 to 44 lbs.) • Stand about 18" high at the shoulders Coyotes • May appear larger due to their heavy fur coat • Coyotes are loners, except when families are raising pups Introduction • Coyotes are present metro -wide — Cottage Grove is not unique • Coyote populations are establishing and growing in the metro • There are no "cookie cutter" answers on living with coyotes • Like other departments, Cottage Grove Public Safety does not respond to wildlife calls (unless immediate threat) • MN Department of Natural Resources handles wildlife complaints General Information • Coyotes are not new to the area • Coyotes have adapted to the suburban lifestyle because city environments support them • Coyotes find suitable habitats in the abundant parks and natural lands • Coyotes have adequate food supplies and are capable of surviving in Cottage Grove without our help Coyotes — Police calls and sightings Coyote and Fox Reports COYOTE AND FOX CALLS 2013.2018 40 38 35 30 25 20 18 15 10 8 7 5 4 I 1 2 2 2 0 � 0 ® 1 0 � 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 4COYOTE ■FOX Coyote Sightings 2 017 i i Cottage Grove • • i • i IIs �iSSiSgrAD� rLU�. 10 95J Coyote Behavior - Food • A coyote that becomes dependent on humans for food may become too bold and acclimated to humans • Coyotes are opportunistic and generally take prey that is easiest to secure Coyote Behavior - Food • Coyotes primary foods are rabbits, mice, other small mammals, birds and fruit sources • Coyotes will scavenge garbage containers, food compost waste, pet food and wildlife feeders Coyote Behavior - Shelter •Coyotes find shelter in anything from low brush to culverts to dens dug underneath decks, sheds and other out buildings Coyote Behavior - Attacks • The MN Department of Natural Resources has no reports of coyotes attacking humans • Often, coyote attacks are preventable by modifying human behavior and educating people about ways to prevent habituation • In many human attack incidents, it turns out that the offending coyote was being fed by people • In many other instances, people were bitten while trying to rescue their free -roaming pet from a coyote attack Coyote Behavior - Attacks • There have only been two recorded incidences in the United States and Canada of humans being killed by coyotes. One involved a child in Southern California in the 1980s and the other a 19 -year old woman in Nova Scotia in 2009 • These events, rare as they are, are serious and warrant serious response Why notjust kill or remove them? • You will never kill/remove 100% of the coyotes • Will trigger biological rebound response • New coyotes will move into vacated territories • Only Effective Methods: • Poison — only legal for Federal Agents • Traps — • Very low rate of capture • Time and labor intensive = expensive • Follow state laws on trapping • Risk of capturing "non -target" animals - pets Hunting season ? • Coyotes are unprotected in Minnesota • May be taken at any time by shooting or trapping, without a license or permit • Legal in designated hunting areas • Land owners (and those with land owner permission) can hunt coyotes where city ordinance allows discharging firearms and archery • Limited areas approved for hunting • Coyotes will learn areas and simply avoid them DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES Will the DNR trap? Relocate? • The MN Department of Natural Resources does not trap, shoot or relocate coyotes. • Where necessary, removal of coyotes is the responsibility of the landowner. Before you see a coyote • Never leave pets out unsupervised • Cats are safest in the house • Do not feed pets outside • Clean up around bird feeders Before you see a coyote •Clean up fallen fruit from trees/bushes •Secure trash cans, food waste compost heaps and garbage Before you see a coyote • Secure foundations of buildings and decks • These provide ideal shelter and denning locations for both fox and coyote When you see a coyote • NEVER run from a coyote • This teaches the coyote that it wins • It is likely to invoke a "chase" reflex • Coyotes can run up to 40 mph, can you? • Get the coyote's attention - you want to make sure it knows you are the reason its scared and is running away When you see a coyote • Make sure the coyote: • Is able to run away (i.e. not sick or injured) • Has aplace/direction to run (i.e. not cornered) • If the coyote can't run away, hazing will not be effective Hazing • Hazing is a method that uses deterrents to move an animal out of an area or discourages an undesirable behavior or activity. • Hazing can help maintain coyotes' fear of humans and deter them from neighborhood spaces such as backyards and playgrounds Why haze coyotes? •Removal (lethal) methods don't work • Problems with coyotes arise when resident coyote populations become accustomed to human activity and are no longer scared of humans • Hazing reestablishes and reinforces the fear of humans and breaks the cycle of conflict • Hazing puts you in control of the situation Why haze coyotes? • No other method provides the long term results that hazing does • Hazing can be done immediately - no wait time for CGPD or MN DNR Hazing Do's and Don'ts Do's • Get the coyote's attention • Get between the coyote and any children or pets • Continue hazing until the coyote has left the area • Use a variety of methods Don'ts • Don't Haze obviously sink or injured coyotes • Coyotes with no escape path • Haze from inside a house, car or behind cover. Be in full view Hazing Coyotes • For hazing to be effective, you must get the coyote's attention • The coyote needs to understand you are what it is scared of and running away from • You don't need to haze every coyote you see. This is the most effective tool in dealing with nuisances. Hazing methods • Using a variety of different hazing tools is critical because coyotes can habituate to individual items, sounds and actions. • Yell and wave your arms while approaching the coyote • Use noisemakers (e.g. your voice, whistles, air horns, bells, soda cans filled with pennies or batteries, pots and pans banged together) • Use projectiles (e.g. sticks, small rocks, cans, tennis balls, rubber balls) • Try other repellants (e.g. hoses, water guns with vinegar water, spray bottles with vinegar water, pepper spray, bear repellant, or walking sticks) "GO AWAY COYOTE!" • The simplest method of hazing a coyote involves being loud and large • If a coyote has not been hazed before, he might not immediately run away • If this happens, you might need to walk towards the coyote and increase the intensity of your hazing • If the coyote does run away, he might stop after a distance and look back at you. Continue to haze the coyote Dog Walking Tools • Remember that you should always walk your dog on a leash • If you see a coyote, either pick up your dog (if possible) or place him or her behind you before hazing the coyote • Blow a whistle or air horn at the coyote • Yell and wave your arms • Use a homemade noisemaker • Pick up sticks or rocks and throw them towards the coyote In your yard • Keeping pets and pet food inside is the best way to keep coyotes out of your yard • If you encounter coyotes use hazing techniques •Clean up fallen fruit from trees/bushes •Secure trash cans, food waste compost heaps and garbage Hazing Final Tips • Be aggressive • Use a variety techniques and tools • Remember to "police" your yards • Don't be afraid • Be diligent • Don't stop hazing after it's successful Education • City Web Page • MN DNR - "Urban Coyotes" • The Humane Society - "Coyote Hazing Guidelines" • Urban Coyote Research Center - Studying urban coyotes in Chicago are for over 10 years -extensive tips of their website • City of Roseville - Link to coyote clinic presented by Edina Animal Control Officer Tim Hunter Action Plan • Education to residents (newsletter, web page, social media, SWCTC) • Understand the importance of policing their yards for potential food sources • Most effective method is frequent hazing techniques Questions/Comments • Requesting Commission comments on an action plan