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Presenters urge coexistence as council hears rise in coyote sightings
Summary
Dr. Liza Ledet DiTommaso and Amy Shutt told the Mandeville City Council that increased coyote sightings are likely tied to social-structure disruption and urged nonlethal approaches — securing trash, removing food sources and protecting pets — instead of lethal control.
Dr. Liza Ledet DiTommaso and Amy Shutt briefed the Mandeville City Council on May 14 about a rise in local coyote sightings and urged residents and the city to favor coexistence measures over lethal control.
"Killing coyotes often leads to more coyotes because it breaks their natural social structure, acting like a reset button," Dr. Liza Ledet DiTommaso said during the presentation. She and Amy Shutt recommended removing attractants such as unsecured food and waste, securing property, and taking steps to keep pets safe.
The presenters outlined practical, nonlethal steps residents can take and said the city’s response should emphasize prevention and public education rather than culling. The council received the presentation; no formal action or vote on policy was taken at the meeting.
The briefing was delivered during the portion of the agenda labeled "Presentations," and the presenters flagged public-safety and coexistence as the primary concerns for neighborhoods experiencing increased coyote activity.
