Conservation officials are warning about an increase in coyote sightings in residential areas in recent weeks.

The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture says reports of roaming coyotes within municipal boundaries are more common during mating season, which occurs in February and March.

The department warns that wild animals can be dangerous and unpredictable when approached by humans and they’re strongly advising that people not feed wildlife.

Pictures of coyotes and coyote-like animals have been circulating on social media in recent days in and around the Northeast Avalon.

Officials say while coyotes have a natural fear of humans and attacks are extremely rare, they do ask anyone who sees or encounters one of the animals to remember the following;

• Remain calm.
• Never crowd or approach the animal, and give it plenty of room to escape.
• If the animal appears to be unaware of you, move slowly and quietly away.
• If the animal is aware of you, wave your arms, shout or throw rocks or sticks.
• Back away slowly toward other people or buildings and never run away as that can encourage a chase.