NEWBERRY, S.C. — Not what you expect to see as reports of multiple coyote sightings in downtown Newberry have residents and authorities on alert.
"It looked more like a dog, and as the animal turned, I realized it was a coyote," says Sheriff Lee Foster, when taking his dog out with his wife early in the morning.
Several individuals throughout downtown Newberry have spotted the coyote over the past several days.
TK Purcell, a Newberry resident, described the initial encounter. "The first sighting was at my parents' house that I've heard of around here, they live a couple blocks off of Main Street and it's just the dogs were going crazy," he says.
An image captured by Purcell's mother shows the large coyote roaming just feet away. He added, "My mom said she thought it was someone's dog who got out at first but once you see the picture you can tell it's bigger than your average size dog,".
Newberry County Sheriff Lee Foster is cautioning the community, especially dog walkers and cat owners, to be vigilant. "I think this particular animal is roaming up and down Scott's Creek which is just down the street," he said.
Jay Bufiloski from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), explained that increased coyote sightings are expected now. "One, we have winter, fewer leaves can see further in the woods. You do have the chance of seeing them more because now people are coming home from work as it's getting dark which is when they become active. It is close to breeding season, there is increased activity because of that."
Bufiloski added, "You don't want to trigger any kind of pursuit response from them. Just face them, back away, go the other way."
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources noted that coyotes could travel in pairs or small groups, but it's also common to see them alone. Residents are urged to remain cautious and report any further sightings.