Have you seen the video going around of a coyote being discovered hiding in the refrigerated section of a Chicago Aldi this week?

Absolutely wild. And it was removed without incident, thank goodness.

If you haven’t seen one in person this season, there’s a solid chance you’ve seen coyote photos posted online or heard your neighbors discussing sightings.

According to local wildlife experts, coyotes are most active in the suburbs between January 15 and February 15 — i.e. right now.

Though they breed in early spring, coyotes are generally more visible during the winter months simply because less vegetation means fewer places to hide out. Plus, they’re spending more time foraging for food (I can relate).

Local authorities are tasked with balancing public safety (the number one concern) with the environmental benefit of maintaining natural ecosystems, which can be a challenge.

Here’s some useful info if you have a serious issue with coyotes in the Tri-Cities:

The wildlife biologists with the Urban Coyote Research Project have compiled over 20 years of data, field observations and case studies to help us understand coyote ecology and behavior in our modern environment.

They’ve got great tips on how to avoid conflict as well.

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☑️ STC energy: A discussion on 1/22 at the St. Charles Public Library will explore the future of energy for St. Charles, addressing the risks of continuing reliance on the Prairie State coal plant and opportunities for cleaner, more affordable alternatives.

☑️ Tracking down trouble: A GPS tracker led authorities to a St. Charles Township property where they found stolen luxury cars, weapons and drugs, resulting in a variety of charges for a local man.

🔒 Life of service: Eric Blowers, a long-time Batavia officer with deep roots in public service, begins his tenure as Police Chief with a focus on community connection, technology and leveraging the talents of River (the department’s comfort dog).

☑️ Leadership transition: Fermilab’s first female director Lia Merminga — who had led the organization since 2022 — stepped down this week amid continued management changes. A search for a new director is underway.

☑️ Stay safe: As the bird flu outbreak escalates and egg prices climb, here’s what Illinoisans should know about limiting exposure to dead birds and consuming eggs.

☑️ Chicago Slice: Did you know that Chicago has a pro pickleball team, owned in part by Tom Ricketts and Heidi Klum? It’s now among the best teams in Major League Pickleball, which has grown to 22 co-ed teams over three years.

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☑️ Earth powered: Geneva’s United Methodist Church has undergone an eco-friendly transformation by installing a geothermal HVAC system and landscaping with native plants, cutting energy costs and creating a haven for pollinators.

🔒 A steady flame: The Daily Herald’s Dave Heun reflects on the life and career of Frank Johnson, Geneva’s fire chief from 1980 to 1996, who guided the department through transformative growth while earning the respect and admiration of his team.

☑️ Support for students: Chip In Batavia’s annual prom dress giveaway is back for 2025. Donate dresses, shoes, accessories, hair and makeup items at the Batavia Public Library starting February 1 through March 20.

☑️ Local legends: If you know any Batavia High School grads or staffers who deserve recognition for their impact in the community, the BPS101 Hall of Honor is seeking nominations for its class of 2025.

☑️ River restoration: The Friends of the Fox River group recently shared an article illustrating how the removal of the Carpenter Dam in Carpentersville has impacted the river’s natural flow, unveiling new habitats and artifacts.

☑️ Going digital: As the state continues working to bring driver’s licenses and state IDs in Apple Wallet to Illinois residents this year, you can sign up here to receive updates on the mobile driver’s license and state ID program.

☑️ Priceless tokens: State Senator Don DeWitte of St. Charles launched his annual “Valentines for Seniors” program for delivering homemade cards and drawings to assisted living centers and nursing homes ahead of Valentine’s Day.

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It appears we’re finally past the holiday hangover — this weekend’s lineup feature more shows than we’ve seen since the middle of December. Especially within the two-block radius surrounding the Arcada Theatre in downtown St. Charles.

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☑️ Big City Burger: From 1/17 to 1/26, The Graceful Ordinary in St. Charles is collaborating with Chef Kaleena Bliss (a 2024 Top Chef contestant) to offer the chef’s acclaimed Seoul Burger.

☑️ Fox Valley expansion: Geneva Ale House announced that the local brewpub now owns Elgin Public House, a pub and restaurant located in downtown Elgin.

☑️ Breakfast & sweets: The St. Charles Business Alliance announced that four local businesses received a 2024 Made in St. Charles award — and there appears to be a common thread. Watch this quick video about the winners.

🔒 Breath of fresh air: According to its board, the St. Charles Chamber of Commerce’s new executive director Rebecca Greenlee “shined above” the other applicants — and she has big plans for supporting the city’s business community.

☑️ Local deals: Saturday (1/18) is “Brewski Day” at 93 Octane Brewery in St. Charles — which means 50% off merch if your name ends in "SKI.” The Walrus Room in Geneva also has a great Monday burger-and-beer special.

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☑️ Geneva Commons Recycling Event | Sat 1/18, 10AM-1:30PM | 602 Commons Dr, Geneva | Bring electronics, clothing and paper fiber products for recycling.

☑️ Soccer Saturdays | Sat 1/18, 11:30AM-1:30PM | Overflow, Batavia | Join other soccer fans to watch international matches every Saturday.

☑️ Polar-Palooza | Sat 1/18, 12PM | Creek Bend Nature Center, STC | Grab the kiddos for a nature-based winter arcade experience.

🎟️ Open House & Social Mixer | Sat 1/18, 6:30-9PM | Zen Loft Collective, Batavia | A sophisticated evening of connection, inspiration and self-care with something for everyone.

🎟️ Rooted: A Plant-Based Conference | Sat 2/8, 9AM-3PM | Elgin Community College | Educational event for gardeners, growers, environmentalists arborists, and plant lovers.

⛅️ Today: High 36F | Low 22F | Relatively warm

⛅️ Friday: High 38F | Low 26F | Balmy + breezy

☁️ Saturday: High 30F | Low 6F | Soulless

🧊 Sunday: High 12F | Low -7F | Bottom drops

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