All Photos of Coyotes are property of the National Park Service: nps.gov
Coyotes are amazing animals with incredible adaptation skills. Perhaps the reason why no other wild animal has endured the wrath of humans more than the coyote. Native Americans consider them to be the smartest animal on earth. On the other hand, some people curse their existence.
February is common for coyote sightings
The coyote’s ability to adjust well to human-disturbed environments has increased the number of sightings in urban areas. Coyotes in populated areas are less fearful of people. They have been known to attack pets and approach people too closely, especially during January and February. These are the main months when coyotes are mating and finding a good location to give birth to and raise their offspring, so they become less tolerant of people and pets in open space and parks.
Photo by: nps.gov
If you live in Coyote Country or plan to visit areas such as Denver, you should consider that coyotes may be more territorial and ready to defend their space as they carve out a place to start their families. Therefore, citizens need to be aware of their presence, as well as the potential for conflict. If you find yourself facing a coyote here is what you should do:
What to do if you encounter a coyote
- Hike during daylight hours.
- Walk with a walking stick or hicking pole.
- Keep a deterrent spray handy.
- Carry noisemakers or rocks to throw.
If A Coyote Gets Too Close:
- Never feed them.
- Do not run or turn your back to a coyote.
- Look as big as possible and get as loud as you can.
- Wave your arms and throw objects.
- Face the coyote and back away slowly.
- If attacked, fight back! Never play dead.
Protect your pets from coyotes
Coyotes are omnivores and opportunistic hunters that will adjust their diet depending on the food that is available. They eat everything from bird seed to berries to garbage. Coyotes also prey on small mammals, domestic pets, livestock, and domestic fowl. So pet owners need to be extra diligent. Here are some tips on keeping your pets safe from coyotes:
Keep pets on a short 6-foot leash when walking.- Avoid retractable leashes.
- Always supervise your pet when outside, especially at dawn or dusk.
- Avoid known or potential den sites and thick vegetation.
- Never allow dogs to interact or play with a coyote.
- Pick up small pets if confronted by a coyote.
- Don’t leave pet food outside.
- Don’t leave cats or dogs outside after dark if you are near coyote populated areas,
- If you must leave your pet outside, secure it in a fully enclosed kennel.
Be responsible when enjoying the outdoors. Prepare yourself and take all precautions so that you, your family, your pets and wildlife are as safe as possible.
