FAIRFIELD, CT — Police in Fairfield are warning residents to be careful after an aggressive coyote attacked multiple dogs and was seen acting unusually around people in a neighborhood near Mill Hill Road, Bronson Road and Whites Hill Lane.

At a glance

• Animal: A coyote police described as aggressive and unusually bold.
• Where: The Mill Hill Road, Bronson Road and Whites Hill Lane area of Fairfield.
• When: Police said the attacks happened Friday, with sightings continuing afterward.
• What happened: The coyote attacked multiple dogs and approached both dogs and people in residential areas and on nearby trails.
• Status: The animal has remained in the area, and police are urging caution.
• Anyone hurt: Police did not report any human injuries.

What happened

Fairfield police said the coyote was first noted after it attacked several dogs and then stayed in the neighborhood. Officers said the animal was seen in the area of Mill Hill Road, Bronson Road and Whites Hill Lane.

Authorities said the coyote did not act like a typical wild animal avoiding people. Instead, it approached dogs of different sizes, including larger breeds, and also came near people in residential sections and on nearby open-space trails.

Resident Linda Keating said the animal’s presence has been worrying for people who walk pets in the area. Keating, who lives there with her dog, Ginger, said the coyote has been seen “all around” the neighborhood, which makes the situation feel frightening for owners of smaller dogs.

Police said the coyote’s behavior stands out because it has shown little fear of people and has remained nearby after the encounters. Residents in the neighborhood said they have begun taking extra steps to protect their animals at home and outdoors.

About the animal

Coyotes are medium-sized wild canines with pointed ears, a narrow muzzle and a bushy tail. In many parts of the United States, adults are usually smaller than wolves and larger than foxes, though they can appear bigger when their fur is thick.

They are adaptable animals that eat a wide range of food, including rodents, rabbits, fruit, insects and, in some places, pet food or unsecured garbage. Coyotes may also take small pets if they are left unattended, especially at dawn, dusk or overnight.

Coyotes are common across much of the Northeast, including Connecticut, where they have adjusted to living near suburban neighborhoods, wooded edges and open land. Most avoid people, but any coyote that loses its fear of humans or repeatedly approaches pets should be treated as a serious concern.

If you encounter one

Wildlife officials generally advise people to keep their distance, stand tall and make themselves look larger if a coyote comes close. Shout firmly, wave your arms and back away slowly while keeping the animal in view.

Do not run, try to feed the animal or let a dog approach it. Pet owners should keep dogs leashed on walks, bring pets indoors when possible and avoid leaving food outside. Small children should stay close to an adult in areas where coyotes have been seen.

If a coyote acts boldly, follows people or attacks a pet, residents should contact local police, animal control or the state wildlife agency. Officials can decide whether the animal needs to be monitored, hazed or removed from the area.

What happens next

Police continue to urge caution for people in the affected Fairfield neighborhood, especially those walking dogs near the places where the coyote has been seen. Residents are being asked to remain alert until the animal is no longer active in the area.

Authorities have not announced any injuries to people, and they have not said whether the coyote has been captured or relocated.

Spotted a dangerous animal where you live? Report it to your state wildlife agency or local animal control.