Everett residents living near wooded ravines, including areas south of West Mukilteo Boulevard, report an increase in coyote activity, citing pet attacks and sightings in residential yards. According to the City of Everett and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), residents should secure property and utilize hazing techniques.
Coyote Encounters and Resident Concerns in Everett
For residents like Eric Light, who lives on Crest Lane, the proximity of forested ravines near Pigeon Creek Number 2 has become a source of daily anxiety. Light reported the loss of his pet cat, Ash, to a coyote last year, a trauma followed by subsequent close calls with his other pets. Light observed a coyote attempting to drag a small dog away just doors from his home, noting the animal was only deterred because the dog remained on a leash.
Rodney Jorgensen, a resident of the area for over 30 years, echoes these concerns. Jorgensen reported frequent sightings in his own yard and near Hannabrook Park. He noted that while wildlife has always been part of the local environment, the coyotes have grown in size and have become noticeably bolder, even following him home after a walk.
Did you know?
Coyotes are highly adaptable predators that often thrive in urban-wildland interfaces.
Official Protocol and Mitigation Challenges
Residents seeking government intervention face limited options. According to Light, both the City of Everett and the WDFW have directed him to hire a private trapper. Light estimated the cost of professional intervention for a local population of 30 to 50 coyotes could reach tens of thousands of dollars, a financial burden he describes as prohibitive.
The City of Everett maintains that wildlife issues are primarily managed in coordination with the WDFW. A city spokesperson confirmed they are reviewing suggestions from residents, such as installing warning signage in parks like Hannabrook.
Recommended Safety Measures for Homeowners
To reduce coyote-human conflicts, the City of Everett provides specific guidance on its official website. These strategies focus on removing attractants and deterring animals through hazing:
- Secure Pets: Feed pets indoors and ensure they are leashed or closely supervised.
- Reinforce Housing: Pet and poultry housing should have a top, with fencing buried in the ground.
- Clear Landscapes: Trim and clean landscaping near ground level to reduce hiding places for coyotes or prey.
- Active Hazing: Use loud or jarring noises, water sprays, or throw small items near the animal to scare coyotes away. The city recommends switching methods so the coyotes do not get too used to one type of hazing.
Switching your hazing methods prevents coyotes from becoming too used to one type of deterrent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I see a coyote in my neighborhood?
The City of Everett advises keeping pets supervised and using hazing techniques to scare the animal away. Report aggressive behavior, wildlife violations, or injured animals directly to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Can the city trap or remove coyotes from my property?
According to Eric Light, the city and WDFW directed him to hire a private trapper to address the issue.
Are my small children at risk?
Residents like Eric Light have expressed significant concern regarding child safety.
Have you had a coyote encounter in your neighborhood? Share your experience in the comments below or subscribe to our local news newsletter for ongoing updates on community safety and wildlife management in Snohomish County.
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