CONCORD, Mass. — Concord Police are asking residents to stay vigilant after several dogs were attacked by coyotes this week.
Three separate incidents occurred near Estabrook Woods when dogs that were off-leash with their owners encountered a coyote den with pups.
The dogs chased the adult coyote out of the den, but the coyote came back and bit the dogs.
"The mother coyote was defending her den when some of the dogs approached the den," Concord Police Chief Joseph O’Connor said.
The coyote is described as medium to large in size, approximately 60 to 80 pounds.
"The people that are going in there are visitors to that area and the coyote is home," O’Connor said.
Late April through May is weaning season, meaning that the adults will be alert.
"It is common this time of year that the mother coyotes will be protective and that she'll probably be out there until the end of May until she's done weaning her pups,” O’Connor said.
Land owners said there is especially high concerns for dogs that are brought to the area then let off leash.
"Unfortunately it was written up as a dog walking park so people have come here and have felt it was appropriate to let their animals loose and run free,” land owner Susannah Kay said.
Concord Police recommend that residents follow safety tips from the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife:
- Leash pets at all times if outdoors. Small cats and dogs are seen as prey and larger dogs, competition.
- Do not approach, feed, pet, or try to interact with coyotes.
- Don't hesitate to scare or threaten coyotes with loud noises or bright lights.
At home:
- Cut back brushy edges, as these areas provide cover for coyotes and their prey.
- Secure your garbage. Coyotes raid open trash materials and compost piles. Secure your garbage in tough plastic containers with tight-fitting lids and keep them in secure buildings when possible. Take out trash when the morning pick up is scheduled, not the previous night. Keep compost in secure, vented containers, and keep barbecue grills clean to reduce attractive odors.
- Keep bird feeder areas clean. Use feeders designed to keep seed off the ground, as the seed attracts many small mammals coyotes prey upon. Remove feeders if coyotes are regularly seen around your yard.