Coyote pack may be roaming Forest Park

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Mayor Domenic Sarno and Department of Parks, Buildings and Recreation Management Executive Director Patrick Sullivan are issuing the following advisory:

The City has evidence of an active coyote pack in Forest Park. The City recommends that all children be accompanied by an adult and all dogs properly leashed.

The department will be working with the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife in identifying the coyote den area and will keep the public advised to ensure safe visits to Forest Park.

On Tuesday, June 2, 2009, a deer was found to have been attacked by coyotes on the Mausoleum Hill in Forest Park.

The department will be coordinating with all park staff to report any sightings to the authorities.

City officials urge the residents to adhere to the following:

Never feed coyotes: When wild animals are fed they lose their natural fear of people and become more aggressive.

Feeding wild animals puts the animal, yourself and your neighbors at risk.

Clean up around your house and yard: This is the best way you can help prevent any human-coyote conflict.

Common attractants for coyotes (and mice, rats, raccoons, skunks, and bears) include: accessible garbage, compost, pet food, and yard fruit.

Coyotes will also prey on cats and small dogs.

To ensure your cats safety keep it indoors or within an enclosed outdoor cat run.

Keep small dogs on a leash and within sight while walking.

If the public has any information or questions, please contact 787-6441.