Wild Animal Threat Still Lurking in Parts of Lafayette Parish

(Lafayette, Louisiana) - It's not the first time, and it won't be the last time we address this threat lurking in Lafayette Parish, but it is worth mentioning again.

For years, we've received reports of these dangerous animals roaming and hunting throughout parts of Acadiana. However, when you see one near houses and a school, you must address the potential threat.

A few mornings ago, while on my way to work before sunrise, I saw what I thought was a large dog on the road; I was mistaken.

While on Rue de Belier, near Acadia High School, a large coyote ran across the road and into someone's yard, and the first thing that came to mind was the kids on the high school campus.

While coyotes are not known to attack people, we have seen videos in the past of coyotes attacking small children; therefore, I am bringing this latest sighting to your attention.

If you have small children or pets, even if you live in the city of Lafayette, it is essential to monitor them while they are outdoors. You should also be aware of your surroundings while outdoors, as you never know what could be around the next corner.

As we approach the winter months, coyotes will be more active as they hunt prey and seek out their next mate. Coyote mating season is primarily from January to March, but as the temperatures begin to cool down in the months ahead, you should be on the lookout for this wild animal and others.

How to Keep Coyotes Off Property

One way to deter coyotes from your property is to secure food and garbage.. Like black bears in Louisiana, coyotes are often attracted to an area when there's a food source, so if you can eliminate the source, the better your chances are of not crossing a coyote on your property..

How to Scare Off A Coyote

In the event you encounter a coyote on your property, you should never approach it, but if one does approach you, make as much noise as you can to scare it away from you, then slowly retreat to a safe place.

Again, this reminder about coyotes in Lafayette and throughout Acafiana is not a scare tactic, but rather a gentle reminder to be mindful when outdoors, as more of us will be outdoors as temperatures become more suitable in the weeks ahead.

Whether you live in the city or the country, we are all surrounded by wild animals. With more development occurring everywhere these days, animals are on the move more than ever before.

Be Safe. Stay Alert.