Residential Areas See Rise in Coyote Population

Oct 19, 2010
Karla Beatty

Long Legs, Large Ears, and Bushy Tail - U.S. Fish and Wildlife

Suburbs and new housing developments may overlap with coyote territory. People must use caution in dealing with coyotes.

Recently there seem to be many more reports of coyote encounters with humans and their pets. Coyotes are showing up in surprising places, including suburbs and cities. This is partially because human population growth causes more construction of houses and businesses. Former wildlife or wilderness areas are shrinking. Coyote sightings are becoming much more common.

Coyotes Adapt to Human Presence

In the past, coyotes had the reputation of being shy with humans. It was rare to see coyotes in action. Now, in populated areas, coyotes are becoming used to people. This means they are less fearful and less likely run and hide. They have been known to attack pets and approach people too closely. Here are some things to do if you have concerns about an encounter with a coyote.

If a Coyote Approaches You:

Don’t run away or turn your back
Appear as large or loud as possible
Wave your arms or other objects around your body
Remain facing the coyote and back away slowly
If attacked, do fight back.

Coyotes hunt and eat small animals, such as rodents, squirrels, and rabbits. They see no distinction with human pets. Cats and small dogs may be considered prey for coyotes. Also, coyotes will be protective of their dens and territories. Dogs may be attacked if coyotes need to defend their dens.

How to Protect Pets:

Even in fenced yards, supervise pets at dawn or dusk hours
Don’t leave pet food outside
Keep dogs on a short leash
Take caution in dense or thick vegetation
Avoid potential coyote den sites
Do not allow dogs to interact with coyotes.

Coyote behavior may be predictable. They are more active at night and are more likely to be seen at dawn or dusk hours. They are generally cautious animals and are more likely to be frightened off than to attack.

Be Prepared for Encounters:

Avoid dawn and dusk hours for recreation
Walk with a walking stick or cane
Carry a deterrent spray
Employ noisemakers, such as coffee cans with a few marbles or rocks inside
Carry rocks or sticks to throw.

Coyotes are smart animals that quickly adapt to changing conditions. Though they are most abundant in the wild, they can easily live anywhere there is appropriate food and shelter, including residential areas. Because of this, people need to be aware and take precautions to protect pets and children. The best response may be to follow strategies that avoid contact, whenever possible

People have always lived in areas with coyotes and often never come in contact with them. Both humans and coyotes have a lot to learn about living in an increasingly urban world. Coyotes are remarkable animals and with care it is possible for humans to coexist with them.