Dear Parents,You may have seen news reports about sightings of undomesticated animals in Troy and the surrounding communities. I spoke to Troy Police today and the investigator told me that they have had unconfirmed reports of a cougar in the area of Kristin and Jack Streets near Schroeder Elementary and a  coyote in the area near Baker Middle School.

Police tell me there is no cause for parents to be concerned about the safety of their children. Both cougars and coyotes are nocturnal animals and neither animal is known to attack people. Still, they are advising anyone who sees one of these animals to make a lot of noise and wave their arms in large motions. Coyotes and cougars do not like noise and will run away when startled by yelling or other loud sounds and movement.If you have a small dog or cat as a pet, there are some precautions you should take. Police advise bringing your pet in at night and when letting your pet out after dark, turn on the outside lights and speak loudly to signal to any predator that a human is present.

If you or your children come across an injured animal, police are asking that you call them immediately. Investigators say you should never approach or touch a wounded animal yourself.Again, police stress that there is no reason to be concerned about the safety of children walking to or from school, but it’s always a good idea to be cautious and aware of your surroundings.If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call me.

Sincerely,
Kerry Birmingham
Director of Community and Media Relations
Troy School District

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Replies

  • I caught one in Birmingham!!!

    Now we're married.
  • I joked on Facebook that the Cougar was spotted at Somerset
  • Sars, Aren't you a little old to be chasing cougars? You accountability partners need to talk to you.
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