In the past few weeks, security has received several phone calls regarding coyote sightings. Coyotes sightings aren’t rare in PGA National, but the number of calls we’ve received suggest either that the population has grown or due to surrounding development, it has pushed more of them into PGA National. Florida has a diverse wildlife and the coyote is here to stay.
However, I’d like to take a moment to share some information that may ease your mind. In Florida, coyotes are not large animals, typically weighing between 15-30 pounds. Males tend to be larger than females. It’s a timid animal that rarely approaches a person. A coyote’s fur is occasionally black but is usually grayish-brown. They have pointed ears, a narrow mouth, and a bushy tail.
Coyote attacks on people are extremely rare across the U.S., but some have occurred. Coyotes eat whatever is available, including garbage, dead animals, and pet food. Given the opportunity coyotes will prey on small dogs and cats with most attacks occurring in early morning hours, late evening and at night. Its advised to not walk your dogs in areas where vegetation presents cover for a coyote and keep your dog close to you. If you’ve seen or suspect that there are coyotes in your community, carry a stick or club while out walking your dog. If you encounter a coyote make loud noises, aggressively wave your arms up and down, or use the stick to frighten them away.
Remember, coyotes are timid animals and you should not be intimidated by them. By cleaning up any pet food outside, fallen fruit and securing your garbage cans. You can reduce the chances of a coyote snooping around your home. You can contact Florida Fish and Wildlife (FWC) at 561-625-5122 if you feel that the coyotes are becoming a problem. You may also visit the FWC website: myfwc.com/trappers for a list of licensed Nuisance Wildlife Trappers. I hope this information was helpful.
As a community, we all share in the responsibility of safeguarding PGA National. Never hesitate to call security to report any suspicious persons or activity at 561 627-1600. Whenever you leave your home – no matter for how long – always lock your doors and set your alarm. For security reasons, close your garage door when not in ingress and egress from the garage.
Sharing information is vital; the smallest piece of information may be the biggest part of the solution.