Coyote Found on I-290 Removed by Amherst Police, Taken to SPCA
February 21, 2017
By: Gina Browning, SPCA Chief Communications Officer
This morning, traffic on the Youngmann Memorial Highway (I-290) was slowed due to the presence of a coyote lying in the road. The coyote was removed by Amherst Police and taken to the SPCA Serving Erie County in Tonawanda.
Upon arrival, the coyote was anesthetized and X-rayed. Sadly, both of the coyote’s femurs were shattered beyond repair, an injury which indicated to SPCA Wildlife Department staff that the coyote was hit very hard by a vehicle. There was also blood in the coyote’s urine. The difficult decision to euthanize the coyote was made.
The SPCA cautions drivers and pet owners to be aware of coyotes especially at this time of year. Coyotes are reclusive animals that will generally avoid human beings. However, February is part of mating season for coyotes, so they may be more active and visible at this time. Typically, coyote pups are born beginning mid-March, so the coyotes’ search for den space may also make them more visible.
To minimize potential conflict with a coyote, the SPCA urges community members to remove food sources from yards. Trash, compost, seed or food for other types of wild and domestic animals should be removed, and dog feces should be cleaned regularly. Rodents are a coyote’s prime diet source, so anything in a yard that can attract a rodent can ultimately attract a coyote. Cats, small dogs, and other small animals should not be left outdoors unattended. Check properties, both outdoors and inside sheds, garages, under porches, etc. for areas that may make appealing coyote dens.
The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) offers information on discouraging coyotes from remaining in yards and neighborhoods. See the HSUS’ article on “coyote hazing” here.
The SPCA Serving Erie County Wildlife Department offers presentations to groups of all ages regarding living with wildlife. Learn more about these presentations here, or call the Wildlife Department with concerns about wildlife or questions about presentations: 716-629-3528.
