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Issues with coyotes and wildlife removal

We may live in an urban environment, but wildlife issues still exist. Myrtle Beach residents have seen coyotes in their neighborhoods. The City of Myrtle Beach is aware of these challenges and provides the following information to protect you and your pets.

For additional information, including a list of private trappers in our area, visit http://cityofmyrtlebeach.com/Coyotes.pdf.

What is a Coyote? The coyote is a medium-sized member of the dog family that includes wolves and foxes. With its pointed ears, slender muzzle, and drooping bushy tail, it often resembles a German shepherd or collie. Coyotes are usually grayish brown with reddish tinges behind the ears and around the face, but coloration can vary from silver-gray to black.

Coyote removal is difficult and should only be attempted by professionals with appropriate permits and conducted under municipal and state regulations. Coyotes that are removed (trapped and killed) from an area may be replaced by new ones. In some cases, immigrant coyotes may be more habituated to people than the previous animals.

Relocating coyotes is not an option (it is prohibited by state law), but trapping and killing are allowed under certain conditions. A person may trap on lands that he owns, or on lands owned by others, provided the trapper has written permission from the landowner. The written permission must be in the trapper’s possession at all times while engaged in trapping activities.

State law prohibits relocation of nuisance animals, although trapping and killing are allowed under certain conditions. A person may trap on lands that he owns, or on lands owned by others, provided the trapper has written permission from the landowner. The written permission must be in the trapper’s possession at all times while engaged in trapping activities.

Wildlife “emergencies” are incidents involving wild animals in which an immediate danger to public health and safety is present. Contact the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources Emergency number (843-953-5291) and/or the Myrtle Beach Police Department (843-918-1382). The Myrtle Beach Police Department may only respond to wild animal complaints in which the animal is sick or injured or is an immediate and present danger to public health and safety. Contact SCDHEC at 843-915-8801 for rabies control inquiries.