A coyote was killed in Ridgefield after it bit a person, police say.

Police were informed Saturday about the bite.

They received several reports that the coyote acted aggressively in the area of Farmingville and Haviland roads.

Police say Animal Control Officer Zulkeski was able "to track the coyote, contain it, and destroy it."

The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection assisted with the investigation.

Police say coyote mating season takes place from January through March.

During this time, coyotes are more active and visible. They also see dogs of all sizes as potential competition or threats.

Pet owners are advised to keep their dogs on a leash, even in their own back yard especially if it's not securely fenced. Pets should not be left unattended outside, specifically from dusk until dawn.

Police say anyone who sees a coyote needs to be loud to encourage the animal to move away from them.

They say seeing a coyote in a field or woods is part of living in Ridgefield.

However, police remind anyone who has a physical encounter with a coyote to contact them. People should also call if they or their pet is bitten.

People should call police if they see a coyote that is visibly injured, stumbling, walking in circles or appears sick.

They also tell police if they see the animal showing "unprovoked, bold aggression toward people."