Information on Recent Coyote Sightings

July 24, 2024 - You may have seen or heard reports of a recent coyote sighting on Mercer Island. The City works with state and federal wildlife agencies to monitor coyote behavior and respond as outlined in the City’s Coyote Management Plan. Coyotes are adaptable animals and while their presence on Mercer Island is not unusual, there are steps Islanders should take to minimize potential interactions. Here’s what you need to know:

It’s unlikely most Islanders will see a coyote. Coyotes tend to be active at night and are naturally afraid of people. However, if you happen to encounter a coyote, the Department of Fish and Wildlife encourages you to "haze" it by jingling keys, making loud noises, yelling, etc. Islanders should also take the following steps:

If you see a coyote on the Island: please report the sighting formally by calling the Mercer Island Police non-emergency number at 425-577-5656: request to speak with a MIPD officer to report a coyote sighting. The officer will ask for basic contact information and will log your sighting in order to accurately track wildlife activity.

If you have a negative interaction with a coyote: call the Mercer Island Police non-emergency number at 425-577-5656: request to speak with a MIPD officer to report a coyote interaction or pet attack. Any attacks on people or pets should be reported as quickly as possible. 

If you are in immediate danger or threatened by an animal: call 911 immediately. This is an emergency and should be treated as such.

The Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife reports that coyote attacks near or on humans are extremely rare. However, humans increase the likelihood of conflicts with coyotes by deliberately or inadvertently feeding these animals. Coyotes quickly lose their fear of people when fed by humans or when comfortable around homes due to easy food sources. All Islanders should:

• Avoid leaving food or garbage unsecured outside.
• Never feed wild animals or leave pet food out, whether for bunnies, racoons, deer, or otherwise.
• Be mindful of your pet’s location.
• Learn more about preventing coyote interactions with pets.
• Be aware of actions to take if you do see or come in contact with a coyote.

It’s important to understand how humans influence coyote activity to avoid inadvertently encouraging interactions. 

Learn more on our Coyote Sightings and Interactions page on Let’s Talk.