Since Mother's Day, we have seen what I assume to be a breeding pair of coyotes with increasing frequency. Their behavior has not been threatening, but they seem to be becoming bolder, i.e., last night, they came across the golf course toward the neighborhood, whereas in the past they seem to have stayed closer to their wooded habitat, often disappearing into the trees when aware that we were watching them. Do I need to report this to someone? If so, whom? They are really beautiful and seem to have done no harm except to rabbits (as a gardener I see this as a plus), and I would hate for them to be harmed. Thanks for your help!

This response was provided by Darryl Coates, Illinois Department of Natural Resources, District Wildlife Biologist.

Good Morning,

You do not need to report sighting of coyotes. If you see aggressive behavior toward humans or perceive a threat to your personal safety report this to your local District Wildlife Biologist. How to find your local DNR Biologist? Select: "Find a Wildlife Professional" on the left hand column of the website. Contact your local IDNR Biologist by clicking on "Find Your District Wildlife Biologist" and click on your county. For more information on coyotes look under the "Directory of Wildlife", 'Mammals', then select 'Coyotes' and you will see additional recommendations. Thanks for contacting us.