Charleston Community Comes Together to Address Coyote Concerns
In Charleston, South Carolina, residents of the Wagener Terrace community are taking proactive steps to tackle rising concerns about coyotes in their neighborhood. Since August, local residents have reported an uptick in coyote sightings and encounters, many of which have been verified through home security cameras. This surge in encounters has raised questions about population control and safety.
A Collective Response to Rising Sightings
According to Petar Lemajic, the Neighborhood President, there is a strong sense of urgency among residents regarding the situation. “Coyotes don’t have a sense of timeline. They’re not going to wait. We need to take action now,” he emphasized during a recent town meeting. In fact, more than 40 neighbors gathered to discuss and vote on a formal coyote mitigation plan that would prioritize education, deterrence, and avoidance, as opposed to lethal measures.
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources has indicated that the responsibility for creating a mitigation solution lies primarily with neighborhood associations and property owners. With limited resources for a comprehensive response, the department has suggested that local communities take the lead in addressing the issue. They do provide a resource list for certified private trappers, but it’s clear that the community wants a different approach.
Prioritizing Coexistence Over Lethality
The City of Charleston also acknowledged the growing concern, stating that they are exploring similar services to assist residents. However, many in Wagener Terrace are advocating for a solution that does not involve capturing and killing the animals. “Capture and kill is typically the process we see,” Lemajic noted, “but we care about these animals, our pets, and our families.”
The proposed plan suggests focusing on coexistence and public education. One of the key components is community outreach, which would involve collaborating with wildlife experts to provide information on coyote behavior and effective deterrence strategies. This might include using noisemakers, lighting, and other methods to discourage coyotes from coming close to homes.
A Flexible Framework for Safety
Similar to plans on Sullivans Island, Wagener Terrace neighbors have recommended that any form of lethal control be used only when absolutely necessary to protect public safety. It’s essential that the plan remains flexible, adapting to different situations and needs. The community is striving for a balance, ensuring that they can coexist peacefully with these wild animals.
Interestingly, a guide provided by the Department of Natural Resources states that coyotes generally do not pose a threat to humans. They are known to have an innate fear of people unless they have been fed or conditioned to be around humans. “Understanding their behavior will be crucial in how we respond to them in our neighborhood,” shared one resident.
Next Steps for Wagener Terrace
The comprehensive plan crafted by residents has been submitted to District Councilmember William Dudley Gregorie for review. The hope is that this initiative will not only address the coyote sightings but foster a sense of community and shared responsibility among neighbors to ensure safety for all.
As the Wagener Terrace community navigates this unique challenge, it serves as a reminder of the importance of education, awareness, and compassion towards wildlife. By coming together and seeking a non-lethal approach, residents are taking a commendable step towards fostering a safer and more harmonious environment, not just for themselves, but also for the local wildlife.
