More coyotes spotted near St. John’s; expert points to boom in hare population

<p>ST. JOHN’S, N.L. – There has been a rash of coyote sightings in and around St. John’s, N.L.</p> <p>A professor at Memorial University says there has been 20 sightings, but that doesn’t mean there are 20 coyotes in the area.</p> <p>Dr. Yolanda Wiersma (Weer-smah) says it’s likely the same few animals being spotted by different people.</p> <p>The professor says the coyotes’ main source of food – the snowshoe hare – has experienced a population boom during the past fall and winter, which has helped the coyote population grow.</p> <p>Wiersma says it’s not unusual to see coyotes on the fringes of urban areas.</p> <p>She says the animals do not represent a real threat to humans, but she also says it’s not a good idea to leave pet food outside at night.</p> <p>(VOCM)</p>