Coyote sightings are increasing in the Kansas City Metro

coyote kansas city prairie village
Photo credit Carol Hamilton/Getty Images

KANSAS CITY - Coyotes are becoming a more common sight in parts of the Kansas City Metro - especially this time of year.

Long a resident of the West, coyotes are relatively new to the Kansas City area. Right now, it’s still denning season - and the animals can be quite protective of the territory they’ve marked out.

Typically found on the undeveloped edge - or in parks - they do come into developed areas, even the suburbs at times. In fact, the Prairie Village Police Department says there’ve been a few sightings recently.

Kansas wildlife officials say seeing one is typically no cause for alarm, as attacks on humans are rare. There has been the occasional person being bitten and coyotes will prey on cats and small dogs.

The wildlife deptartment recommends - don’t feed them - don’t leave water outside - don’t leave the little pets out there either.

And if you encounter one - scare it away with loud noises or the like.

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Featured Image Photo Credit: Carol Hamilton/Getty Images