Coyote sightings in urban areas have been increasing due to loss of natural habitat, easy access to food, and lack of natural predators. This has caused concern for residents who are unsure how to protect themselves and their pets. To reduce negative interactions, residents can keep garbage cans securely closed, keep small pets and children inside at dawn and dusk, keep pets on a leash, and scare coyotes away with loud noises or objects. If encountering a coyote, remain calm, appear larger, use deterrents if necessary, and never approach the animal. Coyotes are usually not dangerous to humans, but can become aggressive when threatened or too comfortable around humans.
Coyote Sightings Increase in Urban Areas, Causing Concern for Residents
Coyotes are no longer just a concern for those who live in rural areas. Over the past few years, sightings of these wild animals have increased in urban areas, causing concern for residents who may not know how to protect themselves and their pets.
Why Are Coyotes Moving into Urban Areas?
There are several reasons why coyotes are moving into urban areas, including:
- Loss of habitat due to development and human encroachment on their natural habitats
- Easy access to food sources, such as garbage cans and pet food left outdoors
- No natural predators in urban areas, allowing coyotes to thrive and reproduce
What Can Residents Do to Protect Themselves and Their Pets?
While it’s important to remember that coyotes are a natural part of the ecosystem and typically avoid humans, there are steps residents can take to reduce the likelihood of a negative interaction:
- Keep garbage cans securely closed and do not leave pet food outside
- Keep small pets and children inside at dawn and dusk, when coyotes are most active
- Keep pets on a leash and never let them roam freely
- Make loud noises or throw objects in the direction of a coyote to scare them away
What Should You Do If You Encounter a Coyote?
If you encounter a coyote, it’s important to remain calm and avoid running or turning your back on the animal. Follow these steps:
- Make yourself appear larger by standing up straight and raising your arms
- Make loud noises or shout to try and scare the coyote away
- Use objects such as sticks or rocks to throw in the direction of the coyote
- Back away slowly without turning your back on the animal
- If the coyote continues to approach, use a deterrent such as pepper spray
Conclusion
As coyote sightings continue to increase in urban areas, it’s important for residents to take steps to protect themselves and their pets. By understanding the reasons why coyotes are moving into urban areas and knowing how to react if you encounter one, you can reduce the likelihood of a negative interaction.
FAQs
Are coyotes dangerous to humans?
Coyotes are usually not dangerous to humans, but can become aggressive if they feel threatened or if they become too comfortable around humans. It’s important to keep a safe distance and never approach a coyote.
What should I do if I see a coyote in my neighborhood?
If you see a coyote in your neighborhood, stay calm and make sure your pets and small children are inside. Make loud noises or throw objects in the direction of the coyote to scare them away. If the coyote continues to linger, contact your local animal control agency.
What time of day are coyotes most active?
Coyotes are most active at dawn and dusk, but may be active during the day as well. It’s important to keep pets inside during these times and to be cautious when walking in areas known to have coyote activity.
