Police in the Portland area are advising residents to be on alert for a roaming and sick coyote.
The animal, believed to be suffering from mange, was most recently seen in the Ferry Village area of South Portland.
“The Animal Control Officer and Inland Fisheries and Wildlife are aware of an increase in mange in the greater Ferry Village area, most recently observed in a coyote,” police said Thursday in a press release.
Mange is a contagious skin disease in mammals (including pets and wildlife) caused by parasitic mites burrowing into the skin, leading to intense itching, hair loss, scabbing, and flaky skin.
“Efforts have been made to capture the coyote; however, at this time, it is healthy enough to evade capture,” police added. “Coyotes and foxes are notoriously difficult to catch, even when suffering from ailments that may ultimately be fatal.”
Cops said that the coyote in question is not exhibiting aggressive behavior and continues to flee when approached.
“Unless circumstances change, the recommended course of action is to leave the coyote alone,” authorities said. “Stressing the animal can hinder its ability to recover from mange, and some animals are able to recover on their own. Mange is ever-present in the environment.”
Residents are reminded to keep outdoor pets up to date on their monthly preventatives and to avoid attempting contact with any wildlife, even if an animal appears sick or injured.
Any concerns or questions may be directed to ACO Maggie Maxwell at [email protected].
