NYC's Secret Coyote Couple: Romeo & Juliet's Wild Manhattan Romance!

2025-08-24 18:00:24.969

In New York City's Central Park, a unique wildlife story unfolds. Chris St. Lawrence, a naturalist and photographer, along with David Lei and Jacqueline Emery, dedicate their time to documenting Romeo and Juliet, a pair of coyotes who have become local celebrities. These photographers work tirelessly to educate the public about these animals, emphasizing that there's no reason to fear them. Coyotes, once confined to the western half of North America, have expanded their range eastward due to factors such as the decline of predators and suburban sprawl. New York City is now home to an estimated 20 coyotes, with Romeo and Juliet having migrated from Westchester County. The photographers use thermal monoculars to locate the coyotes at night, observing their fascinating adaptations to urban life. Their efforts aim to promote coexistence between humans and wildlife, highlighting the importance of keeping pets leashed and not feeding the coyotes. Despite some past negative interactions between humans and coyotes in the park, recent city initiatives focus on promoting conservation and coexistence. The photographers' hope for Romeo and Juliet is a happy ending, with the dream of a thriving coyote family in Central Park, but this requires responsible human behavior.