Neighbors now on edge in Madison, after string of coyote attacks on small dogs

MADISON — Experts say conflicts with coyotes seem to be on the rise in the last couple months in Wisconsin.

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Urban Canid Project say recent reports of those conflicts, and in some cases attacks, have come from Madison, Milwaukee, Neenah and Mequon. Some coyotes have attacked and killed dogs, or even followed residents who were walking their dog.

The State Journal says a string of coyote attacks on small dogs on Madison's East Side has neighbors on edge. Dane County animal control officials say about four dogs have been reportedly killed by coyotes in at least a half-dozen attacks since mid-September in one Madison neighborhood.

State law allows property owners to shoot problem coyotes in rural areas. But trapping is the only option in the city.