#Wolves (?) coyotes and foxes roaming Trenton streets, councilman says

By Jenna Pizzi | Times of Trenton

on February 19, 2015

Eastern CoyoteNJ Division of Fish and Wildlife 

TRENTON - Packs of wild animals including wolves, coyotes and foxes are running around on city streets after dark and residents are raising concerns about their safety, according to a Trenton councilman.

Councilman George Muschal said he received reports from residents about the animals and saw a gray fox cross in front of his truck last Tuesday at the corner of Hudson and Broad Streets.

"If a child is out there or a dog in the yard it might be a problem," said Muschal, speaking during a council meeting Thursday night

Muschal said residents have also emailed and called his office reportedly seeing wolves in the city. Wolves haven't been spotted in the wild in New Jersey in more than 100 years. According to information on the state Department of Environmental Protection's website, wolves have become larger and in varying colors in the Eastern United States due to past inbreeding between coyotes and wolves.

Muschal said he is not sure if it was a coyote or a wolf that was spotted by residents, but said he only took the individuals that called into this office at their word.

"They just know that it doesn't belong there," Muschal said. "I'm not gonna say that there's not a wolf."

Councilman Zachary Chester said he has received concerns from residents about coyotes and foxes -- but not wolves.

Last week, Princeton police reported that a coyote was spotted in town and urged residents to use caution.

Business Administrator Terry McEwen said the city would reach out to the DEP to notify them of the sighting.

Also at their meeting Thursday council unanimously approved funding for a $2.4 million restoration for Hetzel Field Park. The project is being funded through grant dollars, but the city council's vote gives the administration authorization to borrow money to cover the upfront costs of the work.
Council members said they are glad to see the long-awaited improvements are on the horizon.
"It is something that is long overdue," said Councilman Duncan Harrison.

North Ward Councilwoman Marge Caldwell-Wilson said the park is a much needed resource for children and adults in her ward.

"I am going to hold their feet to the fire on this," she said. "I want to see what their plans are for the renovation of the whole area. They need to do something about it."

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