Crime & Safety
Large Coyote Spotted in Scotch Plains
The NJ Department of Fish and Wildlife is aware of the sighting but will not be taking any action.
A large coyote was spotted by a resident of Greensview Drive near Ash Brook Golf Course in Scotch Plains on Monday night, according to Patch reader David Kody who posted the following advisory:
"Scotch Plains residents BEWARE!! A very large Coyote (roughly 50lbs) has been sited by a resident on Greensview Drive on the ASH BROOK Golf Course. The Coyote attempted to attack the resident and his pet. The incident was reported to the Scotch Plains Police Department, Animal Control and the NJ Dept of Fish & Wildlife."
A representative of the Department of Fish and Wildlife confirmed that the sighting was reported.
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"There were no injuries to anyone or any pets that we know of, so we’re not responding on site,” biologist Al Ivany told the Star-Ledger. “If it’s just a sighting, an animal moving on its way, it shouldn’t be an issue."
Ivany directed residents to the department's webpage regarding coyotes, which lists the following precautions:
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If you observe coyotes in the daytime that show no fear of humans or if a coyote attacks a person, immediately contact your local police and the Division of Fish and Wildlife at 908-735-8793; outside of normal business hours call the DEP Hotline at 877-WARN-DEP.
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