Coyotes are present throughout Kansas, inhabiting diverse environments across the state. These adaptable canids have successfully established themselves in various landscapes, from rural areas to suburban neighborhoods and urban centers. Understanding their characteristics and behaviors is important for residents to coexist effectively with these animals.
Coyote Presence and Characteristics in Kansas
Coyotes are well-established across almost all of Kansas, from eastern woodlots and Flint Hills grasslands to western agricultural landscapes. They are highly adaptable, found in rural, suburban, and urban environments. In urban areas, coyotes frequently inhabit parks and undeveloped edges, though they will travel into residential and commercial areas, often at night. Their presence in larger Kansas cities is a relatively recent development, but they have learned to navigate highly populated areas.
These medium-sized canids resemble a medium-sized dog but possess longer, denser fur and pointed, erect ears. Their coat color is typically a grizzled gray, but it can vary from creamy blonde to red or nearly solid black. An adult male coyote generally weighs between 34 and 47 pounds, while females typically range from 33 to 40 pounds. Their bushy tails are long and black-tipped, often carried low, almost between their hind legs, when running.
Coyotes are opportunistic feeders, consuming a wide variety of foods including small mammals like rodents and rabbits, birds, insects, fruits, berries, and carrion. In urban settings, they may also scavenge on artificial sources such as garbage and pet food left outdoors. Coyotes can be seen individually, in pairs, or in small groups where food is readily available. They are primarily nocturnal but can be active during daylight hours, especially younger individuals in the summer.
Living Alongside Coyotes in Kansas
While attacks on humans are rare, caution is advisable, particularly concerning pets. Coyotes view cats and small dogs as potential food, and larger dogs as competition. Instances of coyotes preying on unattended pets, especially those under 30 pounds, have been reported in suburban areas.
To minimize potential conflicts, it is important to eliminate attractants around your property. Secure garbage in tough plastic containers with tight-fitting lids and keep them in secure buildings until pickup. Avoid leaving pet food outdoors, as this can unintentionally feed coyotes and other wildlife. Cleaning up fallen fruit from trees and keeping bird feeder areas clean also helps reduce food sources that attract small prey animals, which in turn draw coyotes.
Supervising pets is another important step; keep cats indoors and dogs on a leash when outside. Small dogs should be accompanied outdoors, especially at dawn, dusk, and nighttime when coyotes are most active. If a coyote becomes comfortable around humans, hazing techniques can be used to deter them. This involves making loud noises, waving your arms to appear larger, or throwing objects towards the coyote until it leaves. If a coyote appears sick, staggering, or aggressive in broad daylight, contacting local animal control or the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks may be appropriate.