Coyotes Showing Up In Twin Cities Suburbs

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Coyote sightings are on the rise in the Twin Cities as the population of the animal has grown in the area in the last decade.

Coyotes have been found in parks, streets and backyards in the suburbs. An official with the state Department of Natural Resources says coyotes have adapted as people move into their former habitats.

Roseville police Lieutenant Lorne Rosand says there have been more calls about coyote sightings, but he says officers won't try to kill them unless there's a threat.

Tim Hunter, an animal control officer with the Edina Police Department, says hazing coyotes can be more effective in keeping them away from homes than shooting or poisoning them. He says yelling, using noise markers or spraying them with a hose can work.