As sightings of foxes continue to rise in Clifton, local police are urging residents not to automatically call authorities every time they spot one.

Many of the recent sightings have been reported in neighborhoods near Valley Road, where residents say foxes have been appearing in yards and along residential streets for months.

"It was early this year that I've seen it for the first time," said Clifton resident Carlos Reyes. "I was surprised. I thought it was maybe a little rabbit, but it was bigger than that."

In response to the growing number of calls, Clifton police have shared a guidance flow chart to help residents determine when action is needed.

According to police, residents should only call 911 if a fox has attacked or hurt someone. Otherwise, they advise neighbors to evaluate the animal's behavior before contacting authorities.

If a fox appears aggressive, disoriented or injured, residents should contact animal control. If the fox is behaving normally and keeping its distance, police say it is generally best to leave it alone.

"Just running right down the street. It was not bothering anybody," said resident Allan Cazimir of a recent fox sighting. "It didn't look like it was a threat or anything, but moved fast."

Police are also reminding residents to keep pets indoors or closely supervised if foxes are spotted in the area.

For some residents, the warning hits close to home. Clifton resident Zane Pallo believes a wild animal, possibly a coyote or a fox, killed her cat.

"Unfortunately, we found her over there by the trees, and there was actually nothing left," Pallo said. "Only head and front paws. There was absolutely nothing left."

Officials stress that residents should never approach, feed or attempt to handle a fox. The reminder comes after a fox tested positive for rabies in neighboring Little Falls at the end of October.