Local

Neighbors spooked by wandering coyote in Sandy Springs

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Some Sandy Springs neighbors got quite a surprise Thursday morning as a large coyote spent several hours holding court in their cul-de-sac.

Neighbors in the Morgan Farm subdivision told Channel 2’s Mike Petchenik they spotted the animal about 10:30 a.m. in a front yard.

“(It was) just sitting in the yard and kind of sunning, just kind of relaxing,” said Becky Fern.  “My dog was kind of going crazy at the window.”

Sandy Springs police showed up to keep a close eye on the animal, and told Petchenik they called Fulton County Animal Control and the State Department of Natural resources to no avail.

“I love animals, but I’m not sure the coyote belongs here,” said Leslie Walden.  “It would be nice if the coyote could be taken to an area where there are woods and a nice home.”

Eventually, the animal retreated into the woods, but neighbors suspect they’ll see it again soon.

“Evidently he thinks this is his home or something,” Fern said.  “I do have a cat and our cat is an outdoor cat, so I guess she’s fair game for the coyote.”

Coyotes aren’t a new addition to the metro Atlanta suburbs.  State wildlife officials have said they are become a more frequent visitor in recent years.  They suggest homeowners keep small pets inside, and keep the lids on their trash cans because coyotes like to eat just about anything.