AMES, Iowa — Reports have come in from all over the metro and rural Iowa of people spotting coyotes. In some cases, they could be going through back yards or along rivers and greenways.

The Ankeny Police Department reported six sightings of coyotes since January 1.

“Initial interaction, just seeing a coyote, isn’t necessarily cause for concern,” said Andy Kellner, DNR Wildlife Biologist. “Coyotes are active in the rural areas and the urban areas, but what I point out is watching for some it’s like OK they’re coming up too close now. It gets a little bit trickier this time of year because we’re actually in their breeding season right now.” 

Both Urbandale and Clive have their own plans for dealing with coyotes.

In Ames residents have seen an influx of foxes running through the streets and backyards of town the past several years.

“If coyotes get moved to a certain area the foxes are going to get moved out of that area so sometimes we see the foxes coming in to city limits kind of protection first,” said Kellner. “It is that way because they can get away from their big cousin who’s not very nice to them,” Kellner said.

People with questions about dealing with wildlife can contact the Iowa Wildlife Center.

“If people want to discuss an issue with us, they can call the office or email us,” said Marlene Ehresman, Executive Director of the Iowa Wildlife Center. “We will be happy to provide one-on-one consultation.”

Kellner also pointed to a list of resources on the DNR website that people can utilize for wildlife situations.

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