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Police report coyote complaints have declined; residents asked to report daytime sightings

October 21, 2025 | Town of Middletown, Newport County, Rhode Island


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Police report coyote complaints have declined; residents asked to report daytime sightings
Town police reported that coyote complaints have declined since the town engaged the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to assist with population control and monitoring.

Police noted complaint counts fell from 33 reports in July–August 2024 to single‑digit monthly reports in early 2025 and only a handful of calls through late 2025. Animal‑control staff told the council the USDA remains available and the town’s contract can be re‑activated if complaints increase.

Several residents reported recent daytime sightings in neighborhood and school areas and urged prompt action; one speaker said coyotes had been seen near a preschool parking lot and playground. Police and animal control advised residents to call the department to ensure each sighting is tracked, and reminded property owners that an updated local policy enables qualified hunters to address problem animals on private property nearer to structures under certain conditions.

The council asked staff to continue monitoring and to reengage USDA resources if daytime sightings rise or incidents increase.

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