Special to
L’Observateur

LAPLACE — The Department of Public Safety is working with a Wildlife and Fisheries nuisance wildlife control operator to remove coyotes from residential areas within St. John the Baptist Parish.

Trapping was initiated at the end of last week and will continue for 31 days.

To date, parish officials said three coyotes have been trapped in LaPlace.

Based on reported sightings, four live traps were placed in the Belle Terre area and additional traps are being placed in Garyville/Mt Airy.

Residents are asked to report coyotes sightings to the Department of Public Safety at 985-652-2222.

Once coyotes are trapped, they are taken to another parish, where they are used for training purposes, St. John officials said.

Residents in the impacted areas should keep a careful watch over small pets and children and avoid approaching coyotes, officials said. They should also avoid trapping devices.