Lately, Whitehall Township has taken on the look of a game preserve with coyotes and deer roaming in the northern tier of the township.

Mayor Edward D. Hozza Jr. cautioned residents whose homes are located in the north end at Monday's Whitehall Township Board of Commissioners meeting.

"We have an issue with coyotes in the north," Hozza told board members.

Coyotes have been found in the northern tier for years.

Hozza urged families to bring their pets inside for the night and be alert when children are playing outdoors.

"Be mindful of your pets and children," Hozza said.

The township has not received any reports of attacks by coyotes.

"They [coyotes] hide in the cornfields," Hozza said.

Hozza noted there is an individual who, on his own accord, may be protecting himself by way of a gun.

Mario Spagnoletti, a member of the Whitehall Environmental Advisory Council, said deer are observed in a small wooded area off Sumner Avenue. Deer can also be seen on lands of the Lafarge Cement Company and heavily wooded areas in North Coplay and Cementon.

The Whitehall Parkway and some other large and small sites are a haven for deer.

Also, red fox have been seen in North Coplay, where the Fox Hollow housing development and a mobile home park are located.