A United Airlines flight declared an emergency on Sunday after hitting a coyote during takeoff at Chicago O'Hare International Airport, airline officials confirmed.

SUPPLY, NC (WWAY) — You may see more coyotes out this time of year. Well, that is because coyote mating season is roughly from January to March. During coyote mating season, the males tend to roam more looking for mates. When females are pregnant, they look for a place to burrow. Once they have the pups, they become more protective.

Animal appeared uninjured and will be assessed before being released back into the wild if that is deemed appropriate.

The County Commission said Florida has too many coyotes, and wants to see a change in state policies regarding controlling the population.

This time of year, it is important to take some precaution. It is rare that a human will be attacked by a coyote, but your pets could be in danger if left unattended. Especially if you have smaller pets. Jonathan Sparks has plenty of experience with coyotes and spoke with us about things to remember.

The United Airlines aircraft was carrying 167 passengers when it struck a coyote on Sunday, Jan. 12 in Chicago, the airline confirmed to PEOPLE in a statement

When walking your dog, keep it on a leash, avoid walking at night and do not leave your pet unattended outside. If you encounter a coyote close, make large movements and loud noises to deter the animal. Remember to treat local wildlife with respect. If the encounter persists, get to a safe place and contact your local DEC Office.

In a press release issued this week, Dallas Animal Services (DAS) reminded communities to stay vigilant amid coyote mating season.

A United Airlines passenger jet struck a coyote on the runway during takeoff in Chicago, forcing the flight to return to O’Hare International Airport to have the landing gear examined.

It went from me thinking I’m going to defend my chickens to I’m going to have to defend myself,” Lett told us.

With a grandstand finale looming around the corner, episode 9 of ‘The Agency‘ sets things into motion as Martian and the London Station gear up for Coyote’s recovery from behind enemy lines. The undercover operative takes a huge gamble by involving another sensitive mission in the plan,