Suburban Chicago coyote sightings increase in winter

WHEATON, Ill. (AP) - Wildlife experts in suburban Chicago say coyote sightings should increase as young animals leave their parents to find mates and their own territory.

Dan Thompson is an ecologist with the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County . He says young coyotes move around a lot because so much space is already occupied.

People see more coyotes in winter because there's less vegetation to hide them and snow makes them easier to spot. This doesn't necessarily mean there's a rise in population.

Thompson says coyotes are becoming more comfortable around people. But if one appears bold, a person should remain confident, wave his or her arms and make loud, intimidating noises.

Pets should be kept on a leash in the forest preserves and in yards.