Sullivan Islanders have been taking precautions against coyotes because a dog was killed in August. Concerned residents demanded answers from the City Council on September 18. One particular resident, Jim Whiteside, whose Jack Russell terrier was attacked in February, expressed concern that coyotes could potentially attack the kid if action is not taken.
At an afternoon board meeting attended by 30 persons, residents discussed the possibility of hunting coyotes or cutting down the maritime forest exactly where the predators reside. The current uptick in concern comes soon after a number of coyote attacks on dogs close to Beach Stations 26 and 27 in August. In 1 case, two coyotes carried off a tiny dog, possibly killing it. In response, the city improved its trapping efforts and has because captured at least 3 coyotes, with the intent of killing them.
Police Chief Chris Griffin stated the improve in trapping efforts is due to a current improve in coyote activity. Statewide, extra than 26,000 coyotes had been killed final year, mainly by hunters.
Residents expressed concern and asked what measures could be taken to guard themselves. Griffin and Administrator Andy Behnke urged residents to report coyote sightings and interactions to police. They also noted that residents can set traps on their personal properties with the assist of state-licensed specialists. They reminded residents that no firearms can be fired on Sullivan’s Island.
One particular resident, Wayne Guckenberger, recommended that addressing the maritime forest problem is essential and that the city is wasting its time if it is not addressed. The dense forest, which has been a supply of contention on the island for blocking ocean views, may possibly be a contributing element to the coyote population.