I think I see a wild coyote and it looks like it is just standing there and not moving. What should I do?

Chances are you are viewing a coyote decoy if it is present in the middle of a field or playground.  The City of Waltham Parks & Recreation Dept. owns several coyote decoys that are placed out on city parks and playgrounds to ward off nuisance Canada geese that soil the landscape with their droppings.  These lifelike coyote decoys are relocated often to maintain there preventative effectiveness.

It is in your best interest to not approach any wild animal especially wild coyotes that are frequently seen on the outskirts of the city.  These animals are usually quite timid being predominantly nocturnal, however any animal when cornered may bite or scratch as an instinctive reaction to defend itself.  Coyotes are known to contract rabies and people bitten or scratched from a wild coyote require emergency care.  Suspected rabies cases are serious medical issues as rabies is a life threatening illness if left untreated.  Medical care sought promptly after contact with suspected rabid animals can be treated successfully with a series of inoculations.