Are you concerned about seeing coyotes in La Grange Park? The Village is surrounded by Forest Preserve on three of its borders so its not uncommon for residents to see coyotes roaming the community.
The Village offers the following tips:
- Get informed and visit the Forest Preserve’s webpage on coyotes: CLICK HERE.
- Do not feed any wild animals such as squirrels or deer, as feeding them inadvertently encourages coyotes as well. Remove bird feeders and outside pet food containers, since coyotes will prey upon small mammals that are attracted to birdseed and pet food.
- Store garbage in secure containers and in areas where wild animals cannot access it.
- Clear wood piles, brush piles, and other potential cover for coyotes and other wild animals. Keep yards clean of refuse and brush.
- Do not leave pets outside unattended. Keep cats indoors.
- Walk pets on a leash, especially at night.
- Reinforce coyotes’ natural fear of humans by displaying aggressive behavior such as turning on outside lights, and making loud noises.
- Encourage your neighbors to follow these same guidelines.
Please be advised that Village police personnel do not respond to reports of coyote sightings, nuisance complaints of coyotes, or any other wild animal complaints unless the animal poses a clear and immediate threat to public health, safety or welfare. A vicious, injured, or any wild animal acting in a threatening manner or suspected of having rabies should be reported immediately by telephoning 9-1-1.
Coyotes are protected by Illinois state law and, as such, it is illegal for the general public to harm, trap or kill coyotes. If the presence of wildlife on private property becomes a nuisance, it is the homeowner’s responsibility to contact a professional contractor having the training, experience, equipment and the required trapping permits from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to safely resolve the situation.