By Spencer Good

Many residents of Hartselle have been vocal lately on social media of what seems to be a growing coyote problem. A great majority of these reports have been stated from within the city limits, where it is with regulations a difficult problem to solve. “This is the time of year, they shift their food sources..” and “With it being a hot and dry Fall, they are seeking an easier food source” said Jud Easterwood, District 1 Supervising Wildlife Biologist from the Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fishery, when asked the cause of these coyote sightings.

Easterwood also said that the number one attractant for coyotes is cat and dog food, and encourages citizens to feed only one serving at a time. “Once the coyotes are within the area, they are known to prey on small cats or dogs as well,” said Easterwood.

When questioned on what the state has done to fight this issue, Easterwood said “As a state wildlife agency, we have done essentially everything we can do. There is no bag limit, you can hunt them 365 days a year. If you see them in the country, you can kill them. As far as what the state can do, we have essentially done everything we can do from a regulatory standpoint.”

However, if you see an overly aggressive coyote which would pose the question of rabies, Easterwood suggest that residents should contact the city who will contact the agency and have them tested. According to Easterwood, coyotes will not attack people –and if a coyote approaches you this is a definite sign that something is wrong.