In the last couple decades, the coyote population has grown significantly in urban areas, as well as in Clark County itself.

Clark County Animal Shelter Director Adreanna Wills said she has heard reports of the animals living behind Lowe’s and neighboring areas.

Several residents of the Stoney Brook subdivision have also reported seeing the animals.

The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources list coyotes as nuisance wildlife, along with bears, beavers, deer, vultures and wild pigs, according to the department’s website.

Coyotes do pose a threat to livestock and smaller animals such as cats and dogs, Clark County Extension Agent for Agriculture and Natural Resources Clay Stamm said. While the extension office hasn’t received any specific reports of coyotes, they are present in Clark County, he said.

“They’re here to stay,” Stamm said. “They are survivors.”

As a nuisance animal, landowners are allowed under state law to trap, shoot or try scaring coyotes away, according to KDWFR.

Coyotes are nocturnal animals, Stamm said, and their breeding season is around February with pups being born in March or April.

“They definitely have a strong foothold here,” he said. “They’re the top of the food chain.”

Small livestock including calves, young sheep and goats, can be victims of coyote attacks, along with household pets left outside at night.

“Be mindful of your pets,” Stamm said. “That’s a food source for coyotes. Try to keep small pets closer to the house.”

Coyotes are generally not a threat to humans. The Department suggests trying to scare coyotes away by making noise, waving arms or throwing a rock or stick in the animal’s direction. Residents should not leave food sources outside, whether table scraps in the trash, pet food or bird feeders. Leaving outside lights on at night will also deter coyotes.

For more information, go to https://fw.ky.gov or contact the Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources at 1-800-858-1549.