Coyotes are common in Chicago and its surrounding areas, demonstrating a remarkable ability to adapt to urban environments. Researchers estimate a population of approximately 2,000 to 4,000 coyotes in the metropolitan area. Their consistent sightings highlight that these animals are not just transient visitors but have successfully integrated into the urban landscape.
Why Urban Coyotes Flourish
Coyotes thrive in urban environments like Chicago due to their adaptability, intelligence, and resource availability. Cities offer abundant food sources and relative safety compared to wild environments, where coyotes face more natural predators. Their opportunistic nature allows them to utilize various city resources, from green spaces to storm drains, as travel corridors. The absence of larger predators significantly contributes to their success. Urban coyotes also exhibit longer lifespans and can achieve higher densities than their rural counterparts, with their flexible diet and ability to navigate complex urban landscapes further aiding their survival and population growth.
Habits and Diet of Chicago Coyotes
Urban coyotes are primarily nocturnal or crepuscular, active during dawn and dusk to avoid human interaction and traffic. They are generally shy and reclusive, often remaining elusive. They typically avoid direct human contact, though their distinctive yips and howls alert residents to their presence.
Their diet is varied and opportunistic, reflecting diverse urban food sources. They primarily eat small rodents like mice and rats, which helps manage urban pest populations. They also consume rabbits, birds, fruits, and plants. Coyotes are predators and scavengers, eating discarded human food, compost, and pet food left outdoors.
Attacks on humans are rare, with no confirmed cases in Chicago. However, attacks on household pets, especially small dogs and cats, are increasing, as coyotes may perceive them as prey or competition.
Living Alongside Coyotes
Coexisting with urban coyotes involves implementing strategies to minimize potential conflicts and reinforce their natural wariness of humans. Securing attractants is an important step; this includes keeping trash in containers with tight-fitting lids and avoiding feeding pets outdoors. Unsecured food sources can draw coyotes into residential areas and lead them to associate humans with food. If pets must be fed outside, it is advisable to do so during the day for a set amount of time and to elevate feeding stations.
Supervising pets, especially small ones, is another important precaution. Keeping dogs on a leash, even in fenced yards, is recommended, as coyotes can jump or dig under fences. Cats should be kept indoors, as free-roaming cats are susceptible to predation by coyotes and other urban dangers.
If a coyote approaches too closely, hazing techniques can be used to re-instill their fear of people. This involves making yourself appear large, waving your arms, yelling, and making loud noises with items like whistles or shakers. It is important to continue hazing until the coyote completely leaves the area, and never to run away, as this can trigger a chase response.
If a coyote exhibits aggressive or unusually bold behavior, such as repeatedly approaching people without fear, it should be reported to local animal control. These measures help maintain a respectful distance between humans and coyotes, promoting coexistence within the shared urban environment.