Rabid Coyote Attacked NJ Homeowner In His Backyard, Officials Say

SADDLE RIVER, NJ — A coyote that bit a Saddle River man on Tuesday has tested positive for rabies, police said.

The victim was doing yard work at his Oak Avenue home Tuesday afternoon when the animal bit him, police said. He drove to the hospital to get treated.

UPDATE: Police in yet another Bergen County town said late Wednesday that a coyote killed a family dog this week.

Saddle River police found and killed the coyote, which "was showing obvious signs of illness," they said Wednesday night.

It tested positive for rabies, a virus that's always fatal when transmitted to humans and animals. Anyone bitten by a rabid animal must get immediate treatment to survive.

"We are working with TYCO Animal Control and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s Division of Fish and Wildlife to best ensure public safety," Saddle River police said Wednesday night. "Coyotes are not rare in our borough and play an important role in our ecosystem. Due to recent events, we encourage residents to be aware of their surroundings while outside, especially in the presence of pets and children."

Rabies is relatively rare in coyotes, experts say— however, a different coyote tested positive for the virus in Bergen County last month after two residents were attacked while walking dogs.

And this past Monday, a housekeeper in Woodcliff Lake and a golden retriever were bitten while in the yard. READ MORE: Coyote Attacks Woman, Dog In Woodcliff Lake

Police said sightings of sick or aggressive animals should be immediately reported to police. Anyone scratched or bitten by an aggressive animal should also get immediate treatment.

READ MORE: Coyote Euthanized After 2 Attacks In Saddle River

Watch Children, Pets

The state says, "Although extremely rare, coyotes have been known to attack humans. Parents should monitor their children, even in familiar surroundings, such as backyards."

Those who see a coyote acting aggressively should contact their local police. In addition, the state Department of Environmental Protection said anyone who sees a coyote in the daytime that shows no fear of humans should contact the Division of Fish and Wildlife at 908-735-8793; outside of normal business hours call the DEP Hotline at 877-WARN-DEP.

More coyote advice from the state of New Jersey is here.

Find out about the signs and symptoms of rabies here.

READ MORE: Coyote Euthanized After 2 Attacks In Saddle River