Coyote management plan aims to keep area coyotes in check

Area coyote sightings tend to increase this time of year. To help residents safely coexistence with coyotes, the City of St. Charles and the St. Charles Park District have developed a coyote management plan. The plan is available on the city website at www.stcharlesil.gov/coexisting-local-coyotes.

"The Coyote Management Plan is designed to increase awareness about normal coyote behaviors and promote the safety of residents and their pets when dealing with potential coyote encounters," said Laura Rudow, superintendent of parks and planning. "Human safety is the top priority of the plan, which aligns with strategies adopted by nearby communities."

The plan contains answers to frequently asked question about coyotes, information about typical behaviors, and a checklist with tips to help make your yard unattractive to coyotes.

Coyotes are common across the state of Illinois, and are necessary in order to keep populations of smaller wild animals and vermin in check. There may be an increase in coyote sightings between now and the spring as young coyotes leave their parents in search of mates and territories to call their own. And, during winter months, coyotes are more willing to venture out of their rural or wooded habitats and into residential areas in search of food and shelter.

For more information about the coyote management plan, please contact the City of St. Charles at (630) 443-3744.