Coyote Tests Positive For Rabies In East Providence

EAST PROVIDENCE, RI — A coyote captured in East Providence last week tested positive for rabies, Mayor Bob DaSilva announced Wednesday.

The animal was seen acting strangely in the area of the WHJY building on Eastern Avenue on Friday. The city's animal control department were able to trap it and sent a sample to the Rhode Island Department of Health, which confirmed that it was positive for rabies.

"We ask that people use heightened caution, especially in that area," Animal Control Officer William Muggle said. "Be sure not to leave pets or children outside unattended. Coyotes are crepuscular, which means they are most active around dusk and dawn, but are often seen outside during the daytime hours as well."

Rabid coyotes are very rare, Muggle said, and this is only the third case in the state since 1994.

Several coyotes have been reported in the same area over the past weeks, some of which were said to be acting strangely. Residents should be on the lookout for coyotes in neighborhoods that get close to people without seeming fearful, stumbling or acting strangely or acting aggressively. Any such sightings should be reported to East Providence police at 401-435-7600 or the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management at 401-222-3070.