Coyotes can be found in urban centers throughout North America. They are most commonly found in open spaces like parks and naturalized areas, but can also be seen in residential neighborhoods. As with any wildlife, it is preferred to not disturb them and leave their ecosystem intact. They help maintain a healthy and balanced ecosystem by controlling rodent and rabbit populations. Relocated coyotes struggle in new environments and removing them can destabilize their family structure, inviting new coyotes to move in.
Coyotes may act aggressively towards dogs and cats, especially near den sites. It’s not uncommon for a coyote to follow or ‘shadow’ a dog-walker out of an area if pups or a den are nearby. It is the responsibility of pet owners to supervise and maintain control over their pets when outdoors.
What to do if you encounter a coyote:
  • Allow the Coyote to Leave: Provide an open escape route for the animal.
  • Do Not Approach or Feed: Maintain a safe distance.
  • Avoid Turning Your Back or Running: This may trigger a chase response.
  • Keep Pets Away: This reduces stress for both the coyote and your pet.
  • Use Hazing Actions: Encourage the coyote to leave with these “hazing” techniques:
    • Be Assertive: Maintain eye contact, stand tall, wave your arms and shout (but don’t scream).
    • Use Noisemakers: Use an air horn, clanging pots and pans, a whistle or a can filled with coins or pebbles. You can also snap open an empty garbage bag or open and close an umbrella.
    • Throw Projectiles: Throw sticks, clumps of dirt, small rocks or a tennis ball toward (but not at) the coyote.
    • Use Liquids in Warm Months: Spray with a garden hose, water gun or water balloons.
Try to prevent coyotes in your area:
  1. Appreciate coyotes from a distance.
  2. Secure your yard with fencing and ensure that gates remain closed.
  3. Do not feed pets outside.
  4. Do not leave small pets unattended in backyard for extended periods of time.
  5. Clean around barbecues, bird feeders and fruit trees.
  6. Remove and prevent potential hiding and den sites.
  7. Install motion activated lights.