DETROIT (WWJ) -- Numerous Coyote sightings are creating a buzz on Detroit's Belle Isle, while wildlife experts say it's nothing out of the ordinary.
There's been a bit of a brouhaha on social media in recent days over coyotes on the island — which is now a Michigan DNR-managed state park — as people in the public post pictures and warnings about the animals.
According Tom Bisset, urban district supervisor with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, there has long been a population of coyotes on the island. And it appears people are just noticing it.
Bisset said mid-January through March is peak activity season for coyotes in Michigan, meaning people may spot them in a lot of places, including on Belle Island and in their own suburban backyards.
Speaking with WWJ Newsradio 950's Mike Campbell Bissell addressed concerns people have been expressing about "packs" of roaming coyotes.
While Bisset said you may often see coyotes a few at a time, but they're not a pack.
He said coyotes are family animals, so they just hang around each other just families tend to do.
Bisset said you don't have to worry about yourself, but if you're walking with a small dog, be sure keep it on a leash because coyotes might see the smaller animal as prey.
If you do encounter a coyote up close, Bisset said it's a good idea to wave your arms and make noise to scare them away. He said having a fenced in and well-lit yard will also help deter coyotes on your property.
According to the Michigan DNR, coyotes have a natural fear of people, so human should refrain from trying to feed or tame them.
To prevent coyote encounters near your home, the Michigan DNR recommends the following:
- Eliminate outside food sources including garbage or pet food left out may draw their attention.
- Clear out bird feeders and/or brush piles that provide food and hiding places for small mammals and birds.
- Keep small pets indoors or accompany them outside and keep them on a leash.
- If you see a coyote in your area, try to scare it off by yelling, clapping or making other loud noises. Most coyotes are naturally afraid of people and will leave if you frighten them.
- Coyotes, like any wild animal, can act unpredictably and should be treated with respect and enjoyed from a distance.
Learn more about coyotes in Michigan at Michigan.gov/DNR.