TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. () – Coyotes have been spotted for the first time in nearly two years on Tybee Island.

Tybee residents told the animal has recently been seen near North Beach, South Campbell Avenue and Crab Shack.

James Keeran shared a video capturing the animal on camera trotting around near Crab Shack.

Mack Kitchens said he spotted one on North Beach two weeks ago.

“I was like, they’re back,” said Kitchens.

Back in 2023 Kitchens said he and his friends would see them mostly in neighborhoods, especially on North Beach.

“I’d see two or three walk down here early in the morning, 5:30 a.m.,” he said referencing to his street. “If you saw two or three together usually, they were looking for food.”

Tybee’s coyote population disappeared in 2023 after the city began trapping them after residents complained.

Still the fear remains or has been reignited.

“I think people are more concerned about their pets,” said Kitchens. “If they’re not controlled, they’ll take over the island. They’re a nuisance basically.”

Tybee Island Mayor Brian West told in a statement the coyotes are not a threat, but people and pets should keep a distance:

“We have coyotes visit Tybee Island every few years. I recall the last visit was in 2023. They are not a threat to us, but we should keep our distance and keep our pets safe.” -Mayor Brian West, City of Tybee Island.”

Per Tybee officials, animals are not allowed to be relocated due to the possible transmission of rabies.