Residents in an Everett neighborhood say an increase in coyote activity is putting pets at risk and raising fears for the safety of young children, prompting renewed calls for action from wildlife officials.
Families living near the wooded Pigeon Creek area report multiple incidents involving coyotes attacking and killing pets, with some saying the animals are now frequently seen roaming residential streets in broad daylight. Several parents also worry the growing number of sightings could pose a danger to children playing outside.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife says coyotes are common in urban areas and rarely pose a threat to people. Officials encourage residents to avoid feeding wildlife, keep pets leashed or indoors, remove food sources, and use hazing techniques to discourage coyotes from approaching neighborhoods.
