But here’s a startling statistic for cat lovers: Coyotes regularly feed on outdoor cats. Researchers tracked coyotes in Arizona and observed 36 coyote-cat interactions, of which 19 resulted in coyotes killing cats.
The article went on to say other studies have found approximately 13 percent of a coyote’s diet consists of cats. However, during this study, in the 45 instances when coyotes were observed feeding, 42 percent of the meals were cats. The researchers concluded that any cat outside is vulnerable to a coyote attack.
I also have heard of instances where coyotes have attacked small dogs left in their yards during daylight hours.
Since nobody is likely to wipe out the coyote population in any area, it seems sensible to keep small pets indoors when unattended by a human.
One more thing: I read about these studies in an article by a bird conservation group. Any idea why they would want to see cats kept indoors? It’s not likely for the welfare of the cats.
Wildlife changes
The Division of Wildlife has announced three staff changes recently, following the retirement of supervisor David Sheets.
Former Preble County officer Brian Goldick was promoted to wildlife officer supervisor in the northern part of the district. The counties he will supervise: Auglaize, Butler, Clark, Darke, Mercer, Miami, Montgomery, Preble and Shelby.
Goldick is a Cincinnati native and a graduate of LaSalle High School and Hocking College.
Replacing Goldick in Preble County is Bradley Turner, who was serving as an officer in Scioto County. He is a Hocking College graduate and has a background in biology.
There also is a new officer in Hamilton County. Reid Van Cleve came from Monroe County. He is a native of Evansville, Ind., and is a graduate of Vincennes University.
Sign up for hunts
Those wishing to apply for a controlled archery hunt at one of 23 natural areas should contact the Ohio Division of Natural Areas and Preserves at (614) 265-6453. Detailed lottery and hunt information may be found at ohiodnr.com/dnap. The deadline for completed applications is Aug. 15.
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