ISLE OF PALMS, SC (WCBD) – On Tuesday, the Isle of Palms Public Safety Committee met, addressing concerns about the recent increase in coyote sightings and attacks and discussing plans to keep people safe. 

In the hours before Isle of Palms City Council met to discuss coyote activity, five sightings were reported to the Isle of Palms Police Department. It’s a pattern that officials said is increasing. 

“We had an uptick recently in the number of sightings and a couple of animal attacks, so we brought it to the public safety committee. The administration and staff have been working between those attacks and now on some litigation efforts,” said John Bogosian, councilmember.

As more encounters are reported, residents grow more concerned. News 2 spoke to one woman who said coyotes attacked her 100-pound dog. The dog survived, and while she’s still worried about another encounter, she’s glad to hear that officials are taking action.

“He was chased out of my backyard and was missing for 2 1/2 hours. Coyotes chased him and attacked him. He had bites on his back legs and under the surface. So, I’m happy that they are listening and moving forward,” said Maryane Chalmers, a resident of Isle of Palms.

Police Chief Kevin Cornett said the department uses drones to find and monitor dens. They’ve also set up six traps along the dunes in high-activity areas. He says residents can also put traps on their private property and take steps to keep the predators away. 

Officials ask that if you spot a coyote, report it to the Isle of Palms Police Non-emergency line at 843-886-6522. For more information on what measures to follow, click the link below.

SCDNR – Wildlife Information – Coyote