TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. () – Coyotes have been spotted for the first time in nearly two years on Tybee Island.
Tybee residents told the animal has recently been seen near North Beach, South Campbell Avenue and Crab Shack.
James Keeran shared a video capturing the animal on camera trotting around near Crab Shack.
Mack Kitchens said he spotted one on North Beach two weeks ago.
“I was like, they’re back,” said Kitchens.
Back in 2023 Kitchens said he and his friends would see them mostly in neighborhoods, especially on North Beach.
“I would often notice two or three strolling down this street early in the morning, around 5:30 a.m.,” he mentioned about his neighborhood. “Typically, if you noticed a small group, it was because they were on the hunt for food.”
Tybee’s coyote population disappeared in 2023 after the city began trapping them after residents complained.
Still the fear remains or has been reignited.
“I believe residents are mostly worried about their pets,” Kitchens commented. “If not managed, these animals could spread across the island. Essentially, they’re a bother.”
Tybee Island Mayor Brian West told in a statement the coyotes are not a threat, but people and pets should keep a distance:
“Coyotes tend to visit Tybee Island periodically. I remember the last occurrence being in 2023. While they aren’t a direct threat to us, it’s important to maintain a safe distance and ensure our pets remain secure.” -Mayor Brian West, City of Tybee Island.
Per Tybee officials, animals are not allowed to be relocated due to the possible transmission of rabies.
