Officials are stressing safety and urging caution as coyotes become more aggressive this time of year.

In Connecticut, the coyote mating season occurs from January through March, with sightings and vocalizations likely to increase during this time, according to the state’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.

This period also sees heightened territorial behavior from coyotes, potentially making them more aggressive, especially around their dens once pups are born in April, according to DEEP.

DEEP officials said that during this time of year, coyote pups are more active as they begin to hunt on their own which can increase sightings.

On Jan. 10, police in Ridgefield said they were made aware of an aggressive coyote that bit a resident. Several other reports were made that the coyote was acting aggressively in the area between Farmingville Road and Haviland Road. A few days later, on Jan. 14, town officials said an animal control officer was able to track the coyote, trap it, and euthanize it, according to the Ridgefield Police Department. DEEP confirmed this is the state’s first coyote attack in 2026.

Officers with the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection assisted with the investigation, according to police.

Last October, state and local officials were advising residents to remain vigilant after a coyote chased a couple of people near West Haven High School. DEEP officials later confirmed that intentional feeding was the cause of the incident.

Coyotoes are common throughout Connecticut and generally do not pose any harm to humans, according to a spokesperson with DEEP.

But just like black bears, coyotes can be habituated and lose their natural fear of people through intentional or unintentional feeding. Coyotes can also feel threatened near their dens during pup-rearing season. Pets are often at the greatest risk from coyote attacks.

To keep you and your pets safe, Ridgefield police shared some tips:

Always keep your dogs on a leash, even in your own yard if it isn’t securely fenced.
Don’t leave pets unattended outside, especially from dusk until dawn.
Secure garbage cans and remove outdoor food sources to avoid attracting coyotes.
If you see a coyote, make yourself big and loud to encourage them to move along.

Police said that residents should call police if there has been a physical encounter or bite from a coyote involving a human or a pet or if a coyote appears visibly injured, is stumbling, walking in circles, or looks sick. Also, if a coyote is spotted showing unprovoked, bold aggression toward people.

Stephen Underwood can be reached at sunderwood@courant.com

https://www.courant.com/2026/01/20/after-coyote-attack-in-ct-officials-urge-caution/