Avoid Conflicts with Coyotes

PAWSITIVELY HELPFUL PET TIPS

WITH DR. DEB

"Tips to Avoid Conflicts with Coyotes"

Coyotes are present in our area year round, however they become more territorial and aggressive during mating season.  Coyotes seek mates and breed from January through March making them more prominent and aggressive.  Thus, the chance for conflict between your dog and coyotes may increase.  Coyotes' fearless nature will often not allow an opportunity to attack pass.

Residential areas provide habitat for coyotes.  Plentiful food sources exist, such as mice, rabbits, and voles.  These small animals feed on birdseed, berries and garbage, which are commonly found and easily accessible.  Shelter and water can be found in landscaped parks and yards.  Space is plentiful throughout parks, trails, and natural areas.  As coyotes have adapted to the presence of humans, they have lost their natural fear of us.

PROTECTING PETS AND CHILDREN

• When left alone, keep pets in fenced areas or kennels with a fully enclosed roof
• Provide human supervision of pets while outdoors, even in your own backyard, especially at dawn and dusk.  (Coyotes can easily jump 6ft fences and they have no respect for boundaries or human territory.)
• Do not allow pets or children to run loose in areas where there is coyote activity
• Keep pets on a 6ft leash when walking
• Do not allow your dog to play or interact with a coyote
• If possible, pick up your child or dog when coyotes are visible
• Avoid known or potential den sites and thick vegetation.  Like domestic dogs, coyotes will defend their territory and their young.

DISCOURAGING COYOTES NEAR HOMES

• Never feed coyotes!
• Remove attractants form your yard, including pet food, water sources, bird feeders, and fallen fruit
• Secure trash in a container with a locking lid or put trash out on the morning of pick up
• Use products with unnatural odors such as ammonia to clean garbage cans
• If a coyote approaches your yard, yell, throw rocks or sticks at it, spray with a hose, or bang pots and pans

ENCOUNTERING COYOTES

• Remain calm.  Do not turn your back or run from a coyote
• If approached or followed by a coyote, make loud noises, yell, and make yourself look big--throw rocks or sticks or other objects
• Use a deterrent spray if the coyote hasn't responded to the suggestions above

BE PREPARED IF YOU HAVE CONCERNS ABOUT  A CONFLICT WITH A COYOTE

• Recreate during daylight hours when possible
• Walk with a walking stick
• Keep a deterrent spray handy
• Carry noise makers like whistles and horns and rocks to throw

Coyotes and other wildlife fall under jurisdiction of the Colorado Division of Wildlife.  For additional information on keeping your pets safe from coyotes, visit the Division of Wildlife's website or review their brochure Your Pets and Coyotes.  If you have an emergency situation involving coyotes, contact the COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE OFFICE, Monday- Friday, during regular business hours at 303 291-7227.  Outside normal business hours, contact the  COLORADO STATE PATROL at 303 239-4501, or your county's sheriff's office.  Jefferson County Sheriff's office: 303 277-0211.