2023-03-27: Eastern Coyote Presentation By Dan Proulx

Click timestamps in the text to watch that part of the meeting recording.

Coyote Coexistence Presentation Analysis: Swampscott

Section 1: Agenda

Based on the transcript, the likely agenda for the presentation was:

  1. 0:00 Welcome and Introduction
    • Welcome by Tony Bandewitz, President of Swampscott Conservancy.
    • Brief overview of Swampscott Conservancy activities.
    • Introduction of the speaker, Dan Proulx.
  2. 2:28 Presentation: How to Safely Coexist with Coyotes and Keep Your Pets Safe (Dan Proulx)
    • Speaker Introduction and Background (Former Swampscott ACO, PAC Agent, Wildlife Rehabilitator, Animal Inspector).
    • Core Message: Do Not Feed Coyotes 4:00.
    • Examples of Wildlife Rescue Work (Bunnies, Birds of Prey, Wolves, Coyote Pups) [5:00 - 8:30].
    • Specific Coyote Encounters/Captures (Boat incident, Mange treatment) [8:30 - 18:00].
    • Eastern Coyote Biology and Behavior (Origins, Diet, Pack Structure, Lifespan, Breeding) [18:00 - 21:25].
    • Why Relocation is Illegal and Ineffective 21:25.
    • Coyote Communication (Howling) 28:30.
    • Coyote Travel Ranges 29:45.
    • Coyote Pups and Learning [31:00 - 36:30].
    • Identifying Coyote Prints 37:00.
    • Hazing Techniques (Extensive Segment) [38:00 - 1:07:00]
      • General Principles (Be bold, don’t back down).
      • Methods: Noise (voice, stomping, air horns, whistles, pots/pans), Throwing Objects, Visuals (lights, movement), Water Spray, Mace/Pepper Spray (gel stream recommended), Charging, Demonstrations (Bomb Bags 1:01:00, Cap Guns 1:05:30, Party Poppers 1:06:30).
    • When NOT to Haze (Suspected Rabies) 49:30.
    • Addressing Attractants (Trash management, recycling, compost, bird feeders, rodent control with paprika) [1:07:00 - 1:13:00].
    • Deterrents for Yards (Moving objects, lighting, trimming shrubbery, motion-activated sprinklers, Halloween props, fake owls/hawks, scare tape, securing under decks/sheds) [1:13:00 - 1:21:00].
    • Coyotes and Golf Courses 1:21:00.
    • Do Coyotes Hunt in Packs? 1:22:15.
    • Domestic Pet Safety [1:23:45 - 1:25:45]
      • Cats (Keep indoors).
      • Dogs (Avoid retractable leashes, keep close, silence tags, awareness, protective vests).
    • Controversial Proposal: Non-Lethal Paintball Marking for Habituated/Aggressive Coyotes [1:25:45 - 1:38:45]
      • Rationale (Addressing specific problem animals unresponsive to hazing).
      • Examples from other communities (California, Canada).
      • Proposed protocols (Trained officials only, MassWildlife permission, safety, record-keeping, targeting non-vital areas, limiting shots, eye contact).
    • Addressing Habituated Coyotes Beyond Paintball (Potential for Euthanasia with MassWildlife approval) 1:38:45.
    • Warning Against Illegal Projectile Use by Public 1:39:45.
  3. 1:40:31 Question and Answer Session

Section 2: Speaking Attendees

  • Tony Bandewitz (Swampscott Conservancy President): [Speaker 2]
  • Dan Proulx (Presenter, Former Swampscott ACO, Problem Animal Control Agent, Wildlife Rehabilitator): [Speaker 1]
  • Resident (Name not stated): [Speaker 7]
  • Resident (Name not stated): [Speaker 8]
  • Resident (Name not stated): [Speaker 4]
  • Resident (Name not stated): [Speaker 3]
  • Resident (Name not stated): [Speaker 9]
  • Resident (Living in Nahant, Name not stated): [Speaker 5]
  • Resident (Living in Nahant, Name not stated): [Speaker 6]

Section 3: Meeting Minutes

Event: Eastern Coyote Presentation by Dan Proulx Date: [No Date Provided in Metadata] Location: Swampscott (Implied)

1. Welcome and Introduction (0:00) Tony Bandewitz, President of the Swampscott Conservancy, welcomed attendees. He noted the presentation was sponsored by the Town of Swampscott and the Conservancy. He briefly described the Conservancy’s mission (preserving conservation land and open space through education, research, stewardship) and highlighted recent projects (new trails, pollinator gardens, wildflower meadow). He encouraged attendees to visit the website (swampscotconservancy.org) and consider membership/renewal. Mr. Bandewitz introduced the speaker, Dan Proulx, noting his previous role as Swampscott’s first full-time Animal Control Officer (ACO) and his current roles as a Problem Animal Control (PAC) agent and wildlife rehabilitator residing in Marblehead.

2. Presentation by Dan Proulx (2:28) Dan Proulx began by outlining his background, including military service, current roles as Assistant ACO in Marblehead, PAC agent (“trapper”), wildlife rehabilitator (mammals), volunteer at Marblehead Animal Shelter, and Animal Inspector for Marblehead.

  • Core Message & Early Examples: Mr. Proulx stressed the importance of not feeding coyotes 4:00, stating it leads to habituation and problems. He shared anecdotes of wildlife rescues, including bunnies, birds of prey 5:45, and his volunteer work with wolves at Wolf Hollow 6:30, which provided perspective on coyote size and behavior. He recounted early coyote encounters as Swampscott ACO, including rescuing a pup from a net 7:20 and dealing with a coyote injured by an illegal trap 8:00. He described capturing a healthy coyote on a boat near the Nahant/Lynn border, emphasizing it showed no aggression and had to be released on-site by law 9:30.
  • Mange and Rodenticides: Mr. Proulx discussed mange 12:00, linking its increased prevalence, especially in foxes and coyotes, to the consumption of rats poisoned by rodenticides, which lowers immune systems. He mentioned an upcoming presentation on rodenticides. He detailed a successful capture and rehabilitation (via Tufts Wildlife Clinic) of a severely mange-afflicted coyote in Linfield 14:00, acknowledging the ethical “double-edged sword” of releasing rehabilitated coyotes back into areas experiencing conflict 17:00.
  • Coyote Biology & Behavior: Mr. Proulx described Eastern Coyotes as hybrids (coyote, wolf, dog DNA) 19:30, monogamous, living in family packs, with a 3-4 year average lifespan in this area (car strikes are a major factor). He reiterated that relocating coyotes is illegal and harmful due to territoriality and disease transmission 21:25. He described their omnivorous, opportunistic diet (rodents, cats if surprised, etc.) 23:00. He shared a personal anecdote about losing his cat to a coyote, emphasizing it was his fault for letting the cat out and underscoring coyotes act as predators 24:30. Breeding season (Feb-Mar) and birthing (Apr-May) were discussed 27:00, noting potential shifts due to climate change. He explained howling functions 28:30 and typical travel ranges (6-10 sq miles, potentially more) 29:45. He showed footage of Swampscott coyote pups and discussed their development and learning from parents, stressing the importance of hazing adults to teach fear of humans to pups [31:00 - 36:30]. Identifying coyote tracks (oval, often two claws showing, straight line travel) was covered 37:00.
  • Hazing Techniques: This formed a substantial part of the presentation [38:00 onwards]. Mr. Proulx strongly advocated for active, aggressive hazing, stating coyotes are generally timid towards bold humans without dogs. He emphasized not backing down 39:15. Techniques included: standing tall, waving arms, stomping feet, using common loud phrases, coordinating with neighbors, throwing objects (rocks, poop bags), using air horns (various sizes) 43:00, flashlights (especially strobes), whistles, and being generally loud and “crazy” 41:00. He demonstrated several low-cost, accessible tools: “bomb bags” (noise makers) 1:01:00, cap guns 1:05:30, and party poppers/streamers 1:06:30, distributing some samples. He stressed holding onto dog leashes during hazing. He advised against hazing animals suspected of rabies (displaying teeth uncharacteristically, acting erratically) 49:30.
  • Removing Attractants & Deterrents: Mr. Proulx stressed securing trash 1:07:00, washing recyclables, securing compost, using waste-free bird seed with catch pans 1:11:00, and sprinkling paprika/crushed pepper around deterrent areas 1:10:00. He suggested yard deterrents like moving statues, motion lights, trimming bushes, motion-activated sprinklers 1:15:00, Halloween props 1:16:00, fake owls/hawks (moved regularly) 1:17:30, scare tape 1:19:45, and lattice/mesh barriers under decks/sheds 1:20:15.
  • Pet Safety: He advised keeping cats indoors 1:23:45. For dogs: avoid retractable leashes, keep dogs beside owner, be cautious near bushes/corners, avoid phone/headphone distractions, silence metal tags 1:24:45, and consider protective vests (offering a discount code) 1:25:00. He shared an anecdote of a vest potentially saving a dog and injuring the attacking coyote’s mouth 1:25:15.
  • Paintball Proposal: Mr. Proulx introduced a controversial proposal for using non-lethal paintball markers only on specific, bold, habituated, aggressive coyotes unresponsive to intensive hazing 1:25:45. He presented this as a potential intermediate step before lethal removal, citing successful, controlled programs in California and Canada that reportedly reduced conflicts without increasing coyote aggression 1:27:30. He outlined strict proposed protocols: trained officials only (ACO, Police, PAC), MassWildlife permission required, high visibility markers (orange), reflective vests for operators, town-specific paint colors for tracking, detailed logging, targeting non-vital areas (hindquarters/shoulder), limiting shots (1-2), making eye contact/hazing simultaneously, and operating within set timeframes (not deep night) and locations (not deep woods) [1:35:00 onwards]. He stressed this was a short-term program suggestion to “reboot the system” for chronic problem animals, followed by long-term community hazing 1:37:00.
  • Habituation & Euthanasia: He acknowledged that highly habituated coyotes unresponsive even to high-intensity hazing might ultimately need to be humanely euthanized by professionals, requiring MassWildlife authorization 1:38:45.
  • Warning: He strongly warned residents that using projectiles (paintballs, slingshots) against wildlife is illegal in MA, and any official program would need bylaws with heavy fines for unauthorized individuals 1:39:45.

3. Question & Answer Session (1:40:31) Several residents asked questions:

  • A resident asked why coyotes seem more prevalent now compared to decades ago 1:40:31. Mr. Proulx attributed it to habitat loss, resource competition forcing daytime activity, and potentially increased visibility.
  • A resident expressed fear for grandchildren playing outside 1:41:45. Mr. Proulx advised supervision, acknowledging the escalation seen elsewhere (California) from pet attacks to potential child incidents, framing his paintball proposal partly as a preventative measure against such escalation.
  • A resident asked how to initiate a paintball program and who would pay 1:42:43. Mr. Proulx suggested approaching the Town Administrator, noting it would likely fall under the police/ACO budget and require town and MassWildlife approval.
  • The same resident asked about capture/spay/neuter 1:44:16. Mr. Proulx expressed doubt about its feasibility/effectiveness for wild populations, contrasting it with managed populations like at Wolf Hollow, and reiterated MassWildlife makes such policy decisions.
  • A resident asked if coyotes are multiplying rapidly or just more visible due to development 1:45:44. Mr. Proulx suggested it’s likely a combination, including displacement and changes in food availability forcing more daytime activity.
  • The same resident asked if Swampscott has exhausted intensive hazing efforts to the point where paintballs are warranted 1:47:32. Mr. Proulx candidly stated he didn’t know Swampscott’s current hazing saturation level, reiterated the paintball idea was a potential next step if hazing fails, and acknowledged the difficulty of hazing elusive coyotes effectively without broad community participation.
  • Another resident echoed the sentiment that hazing should be thoroughly implemented first 1:49:03. Mr. Proulx agreed trying less invasive methods first is always best.
  • A resident from Nahant expressed concern that culling coyotes might just attract new ones 1:51:00. Mr. Proulx agreed removing an established pack removes territorial signals, potentially allowing unknown coyotes (possibly habituated) to move in, emphasizing the need for consistent hazing regardless.
  • Another resident from Nahant stated the town hadn’t effectively taught or empowered residents to haze before resorting to lethal measures 1:53:34. Mr. Proulx agreed education beyond flyers is needed and encouraged support for emerging community hazing groups.
  • Mr. Proulx concluded by reiterating the importance of community-wide hazing efforts.

Section 4: Executive Summary

This presentation by Dan Proulx, a former Swampscott Animal Control Officer and current wildlife expert, addressed growing resident concerns about coyote presence and interactions in Swampscott. Sponsored by the town and the Swampscott Conservancy, the session aimed to educate residents on safely coexisting with coyotes.

Key Takeaways for Swampscott Residents:

  1. Increased Visibility & Root Causes: Coyote sightings are more common, likely due to habitat reduction and resource competition pushing them into residential areas and daytime activity [1:40:46, 1:45:58]. They are highly adaptable omnivores.
  2. Hazing is Crucial: The primary strategy emphasized was active, consistent, and bold hazing [38:00+]. Residents are urged not to be passive observers. Techniques include making loud noises (shouting, air horns, banging pots), throwing objects, using bright/strobe lights, and acting large and intimidating. Proulx demonstrated accessible tools like “bomb bags” 1:01:00 and cap guns 1:05:30. Community-wide participation is needed for hazing to be effective.
  3. Remove Attractants: Securing trash bins (bungee cords, weights), thoroughly cleaning recyclables, securing compost, and managing bird feeder spillage (using waste-free seed, catch pans) are essential to avoid drawing coyotes [1:07:00 - 1:13:00]. Paprika/pepper can deter rodents around these areas 1:10:00.
  4. Pet Safety is Paramount: Keep cats indoors 1:23:45. Walk dogs on short, fixed leashes (retractable leashes are dangerous 1:24:00). Keep dogs close, silence tags 1:24:45, and be vigilant near potential hiding spots. Pick up small dogs immediately if a coyote approaches 1:00:30. Protective vests are an option for small dogs 1:25:00.
  5. Controversial Proposal Raised: Proulx proposed considering non-lethal paintball marking only for specific, documented aggressive/habituated coyotes unresponsive to intensive hazing 1:25:45. This was presented as a potential tool, used successfully elsewhere, to avoid broader lethal measures and track problem individuals. Significance: This sparked debate [1:42:43, 1:47:32], highlighting the tension between escalating conflicts and the desire for humane solutions. Pursuing this would require strict protocols, town approval, and explicit permission from MassWildlife.
  6. Relocation/Culling Issues: Relocating coyotes is illegal in Massachusetts and ineffective 21:25. Culling established packs may simply create a vacuum for new, unknown coyotes to fill 1:51:00.
  7. Community Role: Effective coexistence depends on collective action – removing attractants, consistent hazing by all residents, and reporting encounters appropriately. Supporting organized community hazing efforts was encouraged [1:34:00, 1:54:45].

Overall Significance: The presentation provided practical advice while also confronting the difficult realities of managing human-wildlife conflict when habituation occurs. It placed responsibility on residents for day-to-day prevention (hazing, attractants) while introducing a more controversial potential tool for town officials to consider for specific, problematic situations, pending state approval.

Section 5: Analysis

Dan Proulx’s presentation offered Swampscott residents a detailed, albeit sometimes controversial, look at coyote coexistence, heavily leveraging his extensive hands-on experience as a former local ACO and current PAC agent/rehabilitator.

Strengths & Effectiveness:

  • Credibility: Proulx established strong credibility through personal anecdotes, specific local examples (Swampscott pups 31:00, Nahant boat incident 9:30), and demonstrations of practical tools (hazing devices 1:01:00, protective vest 1:25:00). This hands-on approach likely resonated more than a purely academic lecture.
  • Emphasis on Hazing: The presentation dedicated significant time and detail to various hazing techniques [38:00-1:07:00]. The argument for active, aggressive, and consistent hazing by the entire community was central and well-articulated as the first and most crucial line of defense. The use of low-cost, accessible tools aimed to empower residents.
  • Addressing Root Causes: Proulx effectively linked coyote behavior to environmental factors like habitat loss and attractants (trash, bird feeders) [1:07:00, 1:40:46], placing some onus on community practices.

Points of Tension & Controversy:

  • The Paintball Proposal 1:25:45: While carefully framed as a non-lethal option for specific, unresponsive, problem animals requiring strict oversight and MassWildlife approval, this was inherently the most controversial element. Proulx argued its merit based on programs elsewhere and positioned it as a potential tool to avoid wider lethal control and track individuals. However, its introduction inevitably shifted focus and raised questions about necessity and potential misuse. The audience reaction, particularly questions about whether Swampscott had truly exhausted intensive hazing 1:47:32, indicated understandable caution and perhaps a perception that this step might be premature.
  • Balancing Empathy and Management: Proulx navigated a line between expressing respect for wildlife (evidenced by his rehabilitation work 14:00) and advocating for firm, sometimes interventionist, management strategies when conflicts escalate. His personal story of losing a cat added emotional weight but also reinforced the predator-prey reality 24:30. The paintball discussion, and mention of potential euthanasia for extreme cases 1:38:45, forced attendees to confront the less comfortable aspects of “coexistence” when habituation leads to perceived threats.

Audience Engagement & Concerns:

  • The Q&A session [1:40:31 onwards] revealed deep-seated resident concerns typical of communities experiencing increased coyote interactions: fear for safety (pets and children 1:41:45), frustration with perceived population growth 1:40:31, and a desire for effective solutions. The references to Nahant’s situation [1:51:00, 1:53:34] suggest residents are aware of regional challenges and potentially problematic outcomes of other management approaches (implying Nahant’s lethal control decision).

Overall Dynamics: The presentation functioned as both an educational session and a policy proposal incubator. Proulx successfully conveyed the importance of resident action (hazing, securing attractants). His introduction of the paintball strategy, while potentially polarizing, served to highlight the limitations of hazing if habituation becomes deeply entrenched in certain individuals and forced a conversation about tiered management options. The repeated emphasis on MassWildlife’s authority [e.g., 1:35:00, 1:44:22] correctly framed the regulatory context for any significant intervention. Ultimately, the transcript suggests a community grappling with increased wildlife presence, seeking practical tools, but wary of potentially harmful or overly aggressive interventions without exhausting foundational strategies like widespread, effective hazing. The success of any strategy moving forward appears heavily dependent on unified community buy-in and action, a point acknowledged but perhaps needing further strategic development beyond this single presentation.