New York City: Reports show increased sightings across boroughs.

Coyote sightings are becoming more frequent in New York City, raising questions about their presence in urban environments. Recent sightings, including one in Central Park, highlight the growing interaction between these wild animals and city dwellers.

How Coyotes Migrated to NYC

Coyotes, originally inhabitants of the Great Plains and Southwest, have extended their range over time. They are now established across New York State, including within the city. Many of the coyotes in NYC trace their lineage back to the original group that arrived in the Bronx. The population has been present in New York since the 1930s and firmly established across the state since the 1970s.

Where Coyotes Reside in NYC

Coyotes inhabit various environments within the city, including urban forests, suburban neighborhoods, and parkland. They are known to reside in Manhattan, the Bronx, and Queens, typically occupying a consistent territory year-round.

Coyote Spotted in Central Park

A recent sighting of a coyote near the Upper West Side startled a runner in Central Park. While coyotes in the wild typically live six to eight years, those in urban environments often have shorter lifespans due to factors such as hunting, disease, and vehicle collisions. Sightings of coyotes have been increasing across the city, with a notable spike in 2019 when one was observed in Central Park.

Coyotes on Long Island

Long Island remains one of the last large land masses in the U.S. without a breeding coyote population. However, the proximity of Long Island to NYC places the city at the edge of the coyotes’ expanding range.

Safety Concerns

While incidents between humans and coyotes are rare, interactions with pets are more common. Coyotes are attracted to dogs and cats, posing a risk to both pets and potentially humans. Immediate reporting of aggressive coyote behavior is advised, with 911 being the appropriate contact in case of emergency.

Coexisting with Coyotes

WildlifeNYC offers several recommendations for coexisting with coyotes in NYC:

• Do not feed them.
• Observe and appreciate them from a distance.
• Store all food and garbage in animal-proof containers.
• Protect pets by keeping them leashed and indoors when possible.
• Keep coyotes wary by making noise when encountering them.

Recent Sightings

Recent sightings include a large coyote spotted in Central Park and another in Queens. WildlifeNYC emphasizes the importance of understanding and appreciating wildlife in urban environments.

Conclusion: Embracing Urban Wildlife

From coyotes to hawks, encounters with wildlife are increasingly common in New York City. Understanding how to coexist with these animals is essential for fostering harmony between urban development and natural habitats.

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