Natick Police have offered some tips on how to interact with coyotes and when the police should be called.

A coyote simply walking through a neighborhood, crossing a roadway, or hunting natural prey is generally displaying normal wildlife behavior and usually does not require a police response.

But consider reporting a coyote if it:

Shows little or no fear of people and repeatedly approaches them.

Aggressively follows or threatens people or pets.

Appears sick or seriously injured.

Is trapped or unable to leave an area safely.

Is actively attacking a person or domestic animal.

If you encounter a coyote, do not run. Instead, practice hazing, which is an effective way to reinforce a coyote’s natural fear of people and help prevent future encounters.

To haze a coyote:

Stand tall and make yourself appear as large as possible.

Wave your arms and make loud noises.

Continue facing the coyote while moving toward it until it leaves the area.

If you frequently walk where coyotes have been seen, consider carrying an air horn, whistle, or walking stick to help make noise and reinforce hazing if needed.

Coyotes that continue to associate people with loud, intimidating behavior are much less likely to become comfortable around humans. Hazing is a safe and effective tool when used consistently.

For immediate emergencies or an active threat to public safety, call 911.

For non-emergency concerns or questions, residents can contact the Natick Police Department. 

Additional information about living with coyotes is available from www.mass.gov/info-details/learn-about-coyotes MassWildlife and https://projectcoyote.org/