After receiving numerous reports of a coyote in the area of Marion village and Converse Road police have advised residents to take precautions.

Marion Police said many people called the station last week to report the animal. Residents are warned to take measures to keep family and pets safe.

Wildlife should never intentionally be fed. Police said it's illegal, but more importantly it leads animals to lose their fear of people, which makes them a danger as they become familiar with humans.

Other tips include: Make trashcans “critter proof.” Keep small pets or poultry in enclosed areas that wildlife will not be able to get into. Don't leave pet food outside.

Police advised that anyone encountering unwanted wildlife should use an air horn, tennis ball or garden hose to scare the animal away.

Massachusetts has laws that deal with the illegal trapping of wildlife. These laws can be read at www.mass.gov/eea.  Police remind residents that often the only solution in dealing with aggressive wildlife is for an official to euthanize the animal.