Coyote encounters prompt safety warning in Park City

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

The Mountain Trails Foundation asks for help from residents in keeping coyotes and pets safe

PARK CITY, Utah — The Mountain Trails Foundation is asking for your help in keeping coyotes and pets safe. The organization said it has received reports of coyotes and pets getting into conflicts, particularly in the areas of Fast Pitch and Hat Trick. Even though Round Valley is designated as an off-leash area, Mountain Trails is urging people to use their best judgment and carry a leash. ​

Coyotes are a common part of Utah’s ecosystems. Adult coyotes weigh about 25 to 45 pounds, and they have a brown and gray color with a cream-colored belly.

Avoid coyote/pet interactions

• Do not feed coyotes
• Secure garbage
• Trim vegetation around yard
• Do not leave small children outside unattended
• Install outdoor and motion-sensitive lighting

If you do come in contact with a coyote…

• Make loud noises
• Pick up small pets
• Stomp your feet
• Throw rocks or sticks
• Face the coyote, shout at it, wave your arms, and back away slowly
• Call animal control, the Park City Police Department, or the Summit County Sheriff

For more information on how to prevent encounters with a coyote and other wildlife, visit the Wild Aware Utah website.