Coyote warning: Police urge residents to beware after several reports in Cape May County

CAPE MAY COUNTY, N.J. - It's not often that you get a dose of actual "wild" in North Wildwood, especially in the off-season. But, a wild and woolley Wednesday left residents with a warning from police to keep an eye out for coyotes. 

Police are warning residents to take precautions after several residents say they spotted a coyote dashing through North Wildwood on Tuesday. 

Chuck Crain says he saw the coyote turn on to Surf Avenue before running down 15th Avenue. 

"Coyote came flying down here, must've been doing 30 miles an hour," said Crain.

North Wildwood police put out Twitter and Facebook alerts asking pet owners to keep outdoor cats inside for the next few days and to remain vigilant when walking their dogs because they say coyotes are "opportunistic feeders." 

Families with small children are also warned to be extra cautious, and everyone is asked not to feed, pet, or approach the coyote.

Coyotes are mostly active at night, but they have also been seen during the day, according to officials.

"Middle of the night, whenever they start calling, it's kind of a scary surreal feeling," said resident Ben Clark.

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection says coyotes were first sighted in New Jersey in 1939 and now, they're in every county. They also say they very rarely attack, and they're typically skittish around people.