Two more pairs of coyotes were spotted in New Canaan last week—on Briscoe Road, Pocconock Trail and Benedict Hill Road (see interactive map below plotting all 2014 sightings)—the first sightings in April, according to residents and police.
This coyote was photographed April 3 at 147 Briscoe Road in New Canaan. It was one of two coyotes spotted on the property. The animals had been heard howling around midnight on two prior nights, residents say.
Animal Control Officer Maryann Kleinschmitt told NewCanaanite.com this week that the animals have been running in pairs (they mate for life) up to now as they look for food and prepare to den. When that happens—typically in April—New Canaanites will see only the males.
“Pretty soon you’re going to see one lone coyote,” Kleinschmitt said (full video here). “If you see them, bang pots and pans together, make sure small dogs or cats are kept home. Dogs should be leashed, never left outside with no one with them. Coyotes have two enemies: dogs and people.”
Here’s the updated map:
[Editor’s Note: This article has been updated with new information about sightings on Briscoe Road.]