Sentinel staff report–
The Citrus Heights Police Department on Tuesday responded to claims circulating on social media of cats and other animals being found mutilated around the city, saying a coyote is likely to blame.
“We are aware of social media posts in local groups involving some deceased animals being found in Citrus Heights with suspicious injuries,” the department said in a post on Facebook Tuesday. “Our Animal Services Officers have determined these are likely caused by a #coyote.”
The department also encouraged residents to report all deceased and injured animals to the city’s Animal Services Unit and provided a list of tips to prevent pets from being attacked by wild animals. Tips include:
- Bringing pets inside at night
- Not leaving pet food outside
- Securing trash cans
- Not feeding or attempting to tame wildlife
- Installing motion sensor lighting
The department also advised against using bird feeders, which it said can attract coyote prey. Hiding places for wildlife can also be reduced by trimming shrubs and other greenery.
Responses posted on the Police Department’s Facebook page included residents reporting coyote sightings in the area, as well as some comments expressing skepticism of whether coyotes could cause the mutilation reported. Some said animal remains had been left in the shape of a pentagram or hexagon.
The Police Department’s Animal Services Unit can be contacted at (916) 725-PETS, or www.citrusheights.net/241/Animal-Services.
