Paul Kirby reports in the Daily Freeman that there have been several recent reports of coyotes in the towns of Poughkeepsie and Hyde Park, according to the Dutchess County Department of Behavioral & Community Health. And the state Department of Environmental Conservation believes that the coyotes unusual behaviors are consistent with the animals being fed intentionally or unintentionally. The DEC urges citizens not to leave food outdoors or intentionally leave food for coyotes or other animals outdoors. January through March is when coyotes breed in New York state, and the animals are more territorial at this time of year. The DEC recommends not approaching wild animals, as they may be rabid; don't feed them; make garbage inaccessible.; and remove outside food sources. Anyone who sees a coyote should be aggressive and stand tall and hold your arms up or out to look as large as possible. Then make loud noises if a coyote lingers, and wave your arms and throw sticks and stones. The NYS DEC Bureau of Wildlife asks anyone seeing repeated visits or odd behavior from coyotes to call them at (845) 256-3098. Read more about this story in the Daily Freeman.