Coyotes are rather elusive. They are nocturnal, coming out to feed at night.

"Coyotes are actually very timid by nature," Channahon police Lt. Mark Fischer said.

Maybe this is why residents are concerned when they do see a coyote. However, Fischer said coyotes have never injured anyone in the village.

"There's never been any person attacked in Channahon," he said.

In fact, Will County Forest Preserve District Spokesman Bruce Hodgdon said the forest preserve district rarely gets calls about coyotes at all. In addition to being nocturnal, coyotes prefer natural habitat. Since Channahon has both Channahon State Park and McKinley Woods, coyotes have plenty of natural habitat. But, coyotes are also opportunitic. So, Fischer said residents should take steps to make their property less appealing to coyotes. He said it's important to not leave food out in your yard, including uncontained food for a family pet or wildlife.

To keep small animals safe, small dogs and cats should be kept in a fenced yard or leashed after dark.

Residents can ask questions or report coyote sightings by calling the Channahon Police Department's non-emergency number at 815-467-2112. Notifying police is especially important if the animal appears to be sick.

"If a coyote is acting abnormal, we will send an officer," Fischer said.

Any animal can be a carrier of rabies, however coyotes rarely contract the disease, Fischer said.

Residents who encounter a coyote should yell, clap and otherwise make a lot of noise, and the animal will likely run away.

More information can be found on the emergency services section of the village website.