09/17/2025
PSA for Salem, MA (Salem Willows/Cat Cove/Dead Horse area) Please share on Salem pages.
You currently have a healthy, non aggresive or problematic coyote that is very comfortable in the beach areas of said locations. This coyote frequents both areas (resting and sunning) regardless if public is present. The coyote is crossing through wooded areas separating the Willows and Cat Cove, usually utilizing Columbus Ave and the power line path on most occasions. The coyote is also traveling up and down beach areas sometimes far distances at low tide. The coyote has been doing this for the last year or two and has become very comfortable with the public present in the area. The coyote is causing some concern to many which is understandable, but hasn’t been threat. The coyote has NOT attacked or caused any direct aggressive behavior towards the public or leashed dogs (dogs should always be leashed). The coyote will not respond to regular hazing (scaring), however, when walked towards and looking directly at it the coyote will get up and trot away. I myself have chased it off a couple times the past week. The only way this coyote will start to become reclusive and avoid the public is for it to be chased off consistently, whenever seen in public areas. It may seem mean to some but if you want this coyote to coexist and help keep rat and small mammal population down it has to be done. The coyote is non rabid and will 100% turn and burn (run away from you). I have spent the last several years chasing coyotes off on the North Shore for the protection of the public and the coyotes. We seldom have had any issue with coyotes the last two years. They have now become reclusive in most areas. They always run away like a squirrel or rabbit when directly chased off. I have done it dozens of times and they are scared to death. A human is 3 to 4 times larger than the average coyote, stands upright and is extremely intimidating to a coyote. The coyote will run away just like a squirrel. The State has even started to recommend chasing them off when regular hazing is ineffective. I do not recommend chasing the coyote off if it is acting odd (stumbling or any strange behavior) call local Animal Control or Police if you witness odd behavior. Seeing one during day time isn’t odd behavior. Also avoid chasing it off with your dog (pick up small dogs) and please refrain from throwing things directly at it, however, in its direction and at the ground is fine. A small handful of pebbles thrown at the ground in its direction is very effective. Again chasing it off consistly will solve this issue in a matter of time. As soon as this coyote experiences daily hazing it will start to avoid the public. This in turn will relieve tensions and fear of any direct or indirect incidents. It is understandable to see a coyote in person and be concerned or scared, it’s something you don’t see everyday and it can be intimidating. Please text me for help if you would like some.
If you are in a group even better, everyone yelling charging in the direction of the coyoye will scare the day lights out of it. Again seems mean but it’s best for the animal. This coyote takes advantage of daytime scavenging of squirrels, seagulls, rats, rabbits etc. The area has a plentiful cornucopia of birds and small mammals. It’s just doing what it is designed to do. If anyone has any questions, concerns, experiences or sees the coyoye please feel free to reach out via Text 978-818-0016. The State will not allow capture and relocate, putting the animal down will not be in the equation unless it becomes a safety issue. We are trying to avoid any direct or indirect issues.
Causing the coyote to become reclusive by chasing it off is the best course of action. I recommended to the SPD to chase off whenever seen, even if it’s minding its own business. In due time this coyote will avoid the public which will protect it and prevent direct or indirect incidents. I will be in the area as much as possible to help haze.
Lastly, though it shouldn’t have to be said, DO NOT FEED the coyote. You will be setting it up for failure.