Officials on Sullivan’s Island urge residents to heed scientific proof concerning ongoing Coyote issues

Residents of Sullivan’s Island have been taking precautions against coyotes due to the fact a dog was killed in August. Concerned residents sought answers from Town Council on September 18. One particular resident, Jim Whiteside, who had his Jack Russell terrier attacked in February, expressed concern that coyotes could potentially attack a youngster if action is not taken.

At an afternoon council committee meeting attended by 30 folks, residents discussed the possibility of hunting coyotes or cutting back the maritime forest exactly where the predators reside. The current spike in concern comes soon after many coyote attacks on dogs close to stations 26 and 27 on the beach in August. In one particular instance, two coyotes carried off a little dog, presumably killing it. In response, the town enhanced trapping efforts and has caught at least 3 coyotes due to the fact then, with the intention of killing them.

The Police Chief, Chris Griffin, stated that the improve in trapping efforts is due to the current improve in coyote activity. Statewide, additional than 26,000 coyotes had been killed final year, mainly by hunters.

Residents expressed their issues and questioned what measures can be taken to shield themselves. Griffin and Administrator Andy Benke urged residents to report sightings and interactions with coyotes to the police. They also described that residents can set traps on their personal properties with the assist of specialists who have a state permit. They reminded residents that firearms can not be fired on Sullivan’s Island.

One particular resident, Wayne Guckenberger, recommended that addressing the maritime forest is essential and that the town is wasting its time if it is not dealt with. The dense forest, which has been a supply of contention on the island due to blocked ocean views, may well be a contributing issue to the coyote population.