Coyote spottings have neighbors concerned about their pets

Multiple sightings of coyotes in a midtown Tulsa neighborhood have people very concerned for their small pets.

Seeing them along the Arkansas River or on Turkey Mountain isn’t unusual, but they’re also showing up in the heart of the city. Five different people near 58th and Sheridan have seen coyotes in the past few weeks. The Department of Wildlife says they aren’t necessarily a danger to humans, but they will kill your animals.

Karen Kohut has live in the neighborhood for 12 years now. Her three large Dobermans keep her safe, but lately she’s been a little more on edge.

"I have been seeing coyotes running through the neighborhood at night, and I've seen two of them just in the last month, and it's usually when we're coming home from the store at night,” she says.

The Department of Wildlife says the recent sightings are normal.

“Their diet is so wide in variety that a lot of stuff we put out for our critters they will consume,” says Mike McAllister.

Janet Towne is so worried about coyotes getting her dog that she refuses to let her outside in the front yard without a leash.

"We have to be more careful with Muffy because they can have her for a quick lunch. Our neighbor across the street says he has seen coyotes in his backyard,” she says.

If you’re worried about coyotes in your area, there is one you can do.

"It's real important for homeowners not to leave pet food outside at night. If they feed their pets outdoors, they need to bring in any unused food,” says McAllister.

If you do run into a coyote in your neighborhood, make sure to stand your ground and talk in a loud, firm voice. This will usually scare them away.

"Coyotes do have a fondness for extremely small dogs and small cats,” says McAllister.

They can carry rabies, but you will more commonly see mange on them. Remember, it’s important to never try and reach out to pet one. Also, never turn your back on a wild animal and run away or try to feed a coyote.