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Police attribute the reduction to an increased public knowledge about coyote behavior and how to avoid nasty encounters with the wild animal.
They are reminding residents never to allow small children or pets to play outside unsupervised and to always walk the family dog on a leash.
Some advice on what to do in case you have a coyote encounter:
- Look at the animal while slowly backing away. Coyotes are generally skittish about people and are unlikely to confront you.
- Make yourself look as large and imposing as possible by holding an object, like a backpack, over your head and opening your jacket.
- Shout or yell.
- Throw sticks, rocks or other objects.
For more recommended responses, click here.
Residents can post non-aggressive sightings online and view a map showing such sightings from the past six months by clicking here, police said.
Reports of aggressive behavior or unusual sightings should be made to the New Castle Police Department by calling (914) 238-4422. Call 911 in an emergency.
For more information on New Castle's coyote response plan, click here.
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