Bill > AR207

Introduced Session

This resolution respectfully urges the Division of Fish and Wildlife (Division) in the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection to reduce the coyote population in New Jersey. Coyotes, a dog-like wild animal, migrated to eastern states, such as New Jersey, from their natural habitat in the western United States. Eastern coyotes have more color variation than western coyotes and, because they bred with wolves, are larger than western coyotes. Coyotes may carry a variety of diseases, some of which can be transmitted to humans, and may lose their natural fear of humans through habituation. Most often, coyotes habituate when they are fed by humans. Both habituated and diseased coyotes are more likely to attack humans and domestic pets. In recent years, the frequency of coyote attacks throughout the United States has increased. Coyotes will attack adults, children, livestock, and domestic cats and dogs. Coyote attacks on children are particularly vicious and often lead to serious injury. In New Jersey, the number of coyote sightings has increased since 1980 and coyotes have been sighted in each of the State's 21 counties. As coyotes have expanded their habitat into urban and suburban areas, humans and coyotes increasingly interact and the potential for coyote attacks in the State has increased. In New Jersey, the Division of Fish and Wildlife in DEP is responsible for protecting wildlife and protecting the public from the dangers of wildlife. Accordingly, the Division should take steps to protect the public from coyotes in the State.

AI Summary

Committee Categories

Dawn Fantasia (R)*, 

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Commerce, Economic Development and Agriculture Committee (on 12/11/2025)

Official Document