Coyote Encounters: Understanding the Risks & Staying Safe

Coyotes are becoming increasingly common in urban and suburban areas across the United States. As these adaptable predators venture into human-populated regions, many wonder how dangerous coyotes can be. 

While attacks on humans are rare, with only 367 documented attacks by non-rabid coyotes in Canada and the U.S. over 38 years (1970-2015),¹ it’s important to understand the potential risks and learn how to coexist with these wild animals safely. 

Here are the dangers coyotes pose to pets and humans and practical tips for preventing conflicts and keeping your loved ones safe.

Coyotes & Pets: A Risky Encounter

One of the primary concerns for many pet owners is the threat coyotes pose to their furry companions. Coyotes are opportunistic predators and will not hesitate to attack small pets, such as cats and dogs, if given the chance. 

Coyotes often use a friendly demeanor to lure curious dogs away from their owners, only to attack them when isolated. (ref)

To protect your pets from coyote attacks, it’s crucial to keep them on a leash during walks and never leave them unsupervised outdoors, especially at night when coyotes are most active. 

Installing a tall, secure fence around your property can also help deter coyotes from entering your yard and harming your pets. 

Human-Coyote Interactions: Rare, But Risky

While coyote attacks on humans are uncommon, they can occur when coyotes become habituated to human presence and lose their natural fear of people. 

This habituation often results from intentional or unintentional feeding, encouraging coyotes to associate humans with food. (ref)

In a coyote encounter, it’s essential to remain calm and assertive. Never run away from a coyote, as this may trigger their predatory instincts. 

Instead, make yourself appear large by waving your arms, shouting, and throwing objects in the coyote’s direction until it retreats. (ref) Carrying a whistle, air horn, or pepper spray can also help deter an aggressive coyote.

Preventing Coyote Conflicts: A Proactive Approach

The key to minimizing the risk of coyote encounters is to make your property and neighborhood less attractive to these adaptable predators. 

This involves removing potential food sources, such as unsecured garbage, fallen fruit, and outdoor pet food. (ref) Keeping your yard well-lit and free of dense vegetation can also discourage coyotes from taking up residence nearby.

In addition to these measures, educating your community about the importance of not feeding coyotes and adequately securing their pets and property is crucial. 

Collaborating with local wildlife authorities and participating in coyote hazing programs can help maintain a healthy fear of humans among the coyote population. (ref)

Coexisting with Coyotes: Finding a Balance

As human development encroaches on coyote habitats, encounters between these wild animals and people will likely increase. 

By understanding coyote behavior, implementing effective deterrents, and promoting community awareness, we can learn to coexist with these adaptable predators while minimizing the risk of conflicts.

Remember, coyotes play an important role in maintaining the balance of local ecosystems. 

By taking proactive steps to prevent conflicts and respecting their presence in our shared environment, we can find a harmonious way to live alongside these fascinating creatures.

Source:

1. Human-Wildlife Interaction