Are There Coyotes in Philadelphia?
Coyotes are present in Philadelphia, reflecting a wider trend of wildlife adapting to urban environments. These adaptable canids have established themselves within the city’s diverse landscape.
Coyotes in the City
Coyotes possess a remarkable ability to adapt, allowing them to expand their range into urban areas, including Philadelphia. Urban settings provide them with abundant food resources and often a lack of larger natural predators, which contributes to their success. This adaptability allows them to navigate complex urban landscapes.
The expansion of coyotes into cities is partly due to habitat changes, such as the transformation of farmland into suburbs, and a decline in larger predators. Research indicates that urban coyotes may even reproduce at younger ages and have larger litters compared to their rural counterparts, suggesting cities offer an overall better chance for survival.
Their Philadelphia Habitats and Diets
Within Philadelphia, coyotes inhabit a variety of environments, from large parks and green spaces to river corridors. Wissahickon Valley Park, with its trails, forests, and water sources, is recognized as a suitable habitat for coyotes, providing space for dens and abundant prey. They can also be found in suburban fringes and neighborhoods adjacent to woodlands.
Coyotes are opportunistic eaters, and their diet in Philadelphia reflects the available resources. Their primary food sources include small mammals like rodents and rabbits, as well as deer fawns. Beyond natural prey, urban coyotes readily consume human-associated food sources such as unsecured garbage, pet food left outdoors, and fallen fruit. They also consume insects and carrion, demonstrating their role as scavengers in the urban ecosystem.
Coexisting with Urban Coyotes
Coexisting with urban coyotes involves understanding their behavior and taking proactive measures to minimize potential conflicts. Residents should secure trash in wildlife-resistant containers and avoid leaving pet food outdoors, as these attractants can draw coyotes closer to homes. Removing fallen fruit from yards and securing compost piles also helps reduce food availability.
When encountering a coyote, practice “hazing” techniques to reinforce their wariness of humans. This involves making yourself appear large, making loud noises, waving your arms, and not running, as running can trigger a chase response. Keeping pets on a leash, especially small dogs, is important during walks, particularly at dawn and dusk when coyotes are most active. Small pets should not be left unattended outdoors.
If a coyote appears sick, injured, or exhibits aggressive behavior, contact local animal control or the Pennsylvania Game Commission. Installing motion-activated lights or fencing can also deter coyotes from entering yards.