North Tonawanda, N.Y. (WBEN) - A North Tonawanda woman reported being followed by a coyote Monday morning while walking with her two young children and two large dogs.
The encounter happened at around 9 a.m. near the corner of Rosebeck Drive and Niagara Parkway. The woman, identified only as Alyssa, told WBEN the coyote trailed them along the sidewalk for nearly a block before they were able to get away safely. She later contacted the North Tonawanda Police Department.
Police Chief Keith Glass says residents should remain cautious, noting coyotes and foxes are common in the city and will continue to be seen as wooded areas are cleared for housing.
“They’re more afraid of us than we are of them, unless they appear sick or are not acting normal,” Glass said in an interview with WBEN. “Do not approach, don’t try to feed them and stay away.”
The State Department of Environmental Conservation advises that coyotes showing no fear of people should be considered dangerous. The agency recommends the following steps during an encounter:
- Stand tall, wave your arms, and make loud noises to appear larger and more threatening;
- Throw sticks or stones if necessary;
- Call police and the DEC to report the sighting;
- Supervise children closely if coyotes are spotted nearby, as they are most at risk;