Coyotes get bolder in neighborhoods

Throughout the summer we have encountered remains of dead animals killed by coyotes in our yard. This week the victim was a deer.

A long procession of blood and entrails led to a coyote, its blood-covered snout still gorging on a freshly killed young deer. This sight took place in the middle of the day in our backyard, which is only 200 feet from the Willow Recreation Center at Algonquin Road and Lexington Drive in Hoffman Estates.

The coyote was undaunted, staring intently at us as we moved closer to examine the carnage. We watched as this large predator dragged the deer’s protracted carcass into the brush behind the Willow Rec Center.

Residents believe these coyotes are not only a nuisance but also a serious threat. One or more coyotes are killing and devouring prey near this neighborhood park district facility. The center includes a children’s playground, skate park and community dog park.

After seeing a hungry coyote slaughter a deer, this spectacle generates a great deal of concern about children playing at the adjacent playground, or patrons bringing their family dog to visit the dog park next door.

Local police referred us to Cook County Animal Control. Cook County Animal Control instructs callers to contact local police. And so it goes.

Action must be taken to control these carnivores and the hazard they present. In the wake of observing multiple killings by coyotes this summer, it has become apparent to our neighborhood that these wild animals can be an immediate and obvious threat to the safety of our children, people and pets.

Bill Bierer

South Barrington