USDA Wildlife Services Removes Two Coyotes on Mercer Island

February 23, 2022 - Over the past three weeks, the USDA’s Wildlife Services Division has been on Mercer Island responding to recent reports of unfearful and brazen coyote activity in the area. The division’s experts analyzed sighting reports and directly observed coyote behavior in various areas of the Island – during this period, they identified two coyotes displaying increased comfortability around humans and homes. The USDA experts determined that removal of these animals was needed under current guidelines, and the two coyotes were euthanized following USDA protocol. More information about the USDA’s process is available on Let’s Talk.

The removal occurred last week, with no further confirmed coyote sightings reported since. At this time, the experts do not believe additional coyotes are active on the Island. Nevertheless, please remain vigilant and continue to report coyote encounters to the Mercer Island Police non-emergency number: 425-577-5656 (call 911 if you are in danger).

Wildlife management is a specialized practice and the City will continue to partner with the respective agencies, including the USDA. All Islanders are encouraged to keep wildlife practices in mind: don’t leave pets unattended, don’t feed wildlife of any kind, and secure food sources around your home. 
Please review the City’s centralized wildlife resource page for more information.