CHARLOTTE — A recently shared video on a neighborhood app has residents in the Lela Court area—located just a few minutes west of Uptown—on high alert after coyotes were spotted roaming a local alley. According to Troy (a neighborhood resident), who posted the video, this marks the third time his security cameras have captured the animals passing through. The footage has quickly gained attention, prompting discussion—and concern—among neighbors in this close-to-center-city community.
“It sure did look like that first one had something in its mouth,” wrote Brian from Country Club Heights, responding to Troy’s post. “I hope it wasn’t someone’s cat.” Brian also inquired about the camera’s placement, noting the distinct angle that seems to show the alley’s layout clearly.
Residents in Wesley Heights and other adjacent neighborhoods chimed in, some worried about missing pets. “Wow! We haven’t seen our stray kitten in a while,” wrote Leslie. “I hope this wasn’t their fate.” Another neighbor, Thea, echoed the fear that the coyote might be carrying a small animal: “It appears to be a small animal in its mouth.”
The conversation intensified when a few posts speculated that the coyotes could be responsible for several neighborhood cats and stray kittens going missing. One user, Lisa from Sunset Road, suggested sharing the video on a dedicated group page for coyote sightings to alert others in the region.
In the midst of the heated exchange, some neighbors voiced frustration over roaming pets and the realities of wildlife in an urban setting. “There are literally hundreds of coyotes in Charlotte. It is currently mating season,” wrote Lesa from Closeburn. “If people still allow their cats to go outside and do not leash their small dogs at night, they are the reason their animal is harmed.”
Others, like Zy from Oaklawn Park, urged compassion toward animals on all sides, emphasizing it’s not a time to be dismissive of lost pets. “Obviously you have something against cats,” Zy responded to Lesa. “I hope if you do, one messes you up since you’re not compassionate.”
According to the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, coyotes are increasingly present in urban and suburban areas—even in neighborhoods just a short drive from Uptown. Officials advise residents to secure trash cans, keep pets indoors—especially during dawn and dusk—and avoid leaving pet food outside. This guidance is particularly important during mating season, which typically spans late winter and early spring, a time when coyotes can be more territorial.
Local residents such as Julie from Dilworth West are now urging all pet owners to stay vigilant: “Wow… keep your animals safe!” she wrote, summarizing the overall sentiment of the discussion.
As Charlotte continues to grow and new developments push into previously undeveloped areas, encounters between wildlife and residents may become more common—even in bustling districts near the city’s center. Neighbors hope that by staying informed and taking a few extra precautions—like monitoring pets and installing security cameras—they can coexist more safely with the coyotes and other urban wildlife that also call Charlotte home.
If you have spotted coyotes or experienced issues with local wildlife, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission recommends contacting a licensed wildlife professional for guidance.
