Community members are growing more and more concerned over the number of coyote sightings in the London area.
The Middlesex County OPP issued a statement Friday after receiving reports of three coyotes wandering around the Coldstream Library in Middlesex Centre.
While it's not unusual for wild animals to be spotted in the countryside, residents of St. Thomas have taken to Facebook to warn neighbours that coyotes have been lurking around the downtown area for days.
"I have seen the same coyote running down [Scott Street] three nights in a row now," confirmed Gavin Pyatt, who lives on the same road. "So many outdoor cats and dogs in the area, it’s scary."
Other community members claim to have seen the animals along Elysian Street, Hiawatha Street, and further east on Kains Street.
For many, the cause of concern is that the generally nocturnal creatures are brazenly wandering around town in broad daylight.
With many locals feeling disturbed by the number of sightings in the area, police have shared a list of tips for those who come across the wild animals.
"If you see a coyote, keep your distance and appreciate it from afar," police said. "The animal will most likely avoid you."
For those who may come face-to-face with an aggressive coyote, police advise not to approach the animal nor to turn your back and run. Instead, stand tall, make as much noise as possible, and back away from the animal slowly.
While coyotes don't pose much of a threat to adults, the creatures have been know to attack pets and small children.
Sandy Jones, another St. Thomas resident who lives on Saint George Street, says her small dog almost fell prey to a coyote on Wednesday evening. When one of the wild animals came up to her laneway, Jones' Yorkshire Terrier Nico was almost snatched up.
"That coyote was walking down the street and it spotted Nico and my granddaughter and it headed right towards Nico. It was a pretty scary situation for my granddaughter, Starr," Jones explained.
Luckily, Starr was able to scoop the dog up and bring him back to safety. According to Jones, a vigilant neighbour instructed Starr to get up on the porch and then inside the house.
If Starr and the neighbours hadn't been so alert, the story could have ended a whole lot differently.
To help keep coyotes out of your neighbourhood, police say keep pets inside at night, install a sturdy fence onto your property, and ensure that all garbage and dog feces are cleaned up as the animals can be attracted to the scent. Police also advise not to leave food out with the purpose of attracting wildlife, as this practice can make animals less fearful of humans over time.
More information about coyotes can be found on the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority website.