Coyotes are members of the dog family Canidae. They can be found throughout the United States and are quite common in Utah. They are adapted to a wide range of habitats, including urban areas such as inner cities and suburban neighborhoods. Photo: Utah Division of Wildlife Resources // Dustin Stettler

Do not run or turn away from coyotes, Basin Recreation warns

PARK CITY, Utah — Coyote activity has increased at Run-A-Muk dog park and around RTS trails, according to a Facebook post from Basin Recreation.

Basin Recreation has provided the following tips for recreating in open spaces:

Run-A-Muk is an an off-leash open space where wildlife may live or pass through. Dogs must be on leash or have an e-collar on RTS Open Space.
DO NOT allow dogs to pursue coyotes. Supervise your dogs at all times.
Let the coyotes know you are present by speaking loudly or waving your arms.
If a coyote approaches you, do not run or turn your back. Make yourself look as a big as possible, make noise or throw objects.

“Coyotes have a natural fear of humans and are not usually a threat,” said that Facebook post. “They are a sign of a healthy ecosystem and maintain populations of rodents and smaller predators. If you come across a coyote that is being aggressive or appears to be sick, please contact animal control or the sheriff’s office.”