Are There Coyotes in West Virginia?
Yes, coyotes are present throughout West Virginia. These adaptable canids have become an established part of the state’s wildlife, inhabiting various landscapes across the region.
Historical Presence and Spread
Coyotes were not historically common in West Virginia, with their natural range primarily in the Great Plains. Their expansion eastward is a relatively recent phenomenon, with the first documented coyote sighting in West Virginia occurring in the 1970s. This rapid spread across North America over the last century has been attributed to several factors.
The decline and near extinction of larger predators such as mountain lions and gray wolves in the eastern United States by the early 1900s created an ecological void. This reduction in competition and predation allowed coyote populations to expand their territory. Changes in land use, including the conversion of forests to farmland, also opened new habitats. As coyotes moved east, they sometimes interbred with remaining wolf populations, leading to the larger eastern coyote. Human activities, including intentional relocation for sport hunting, also contributed to their establishment in new areas like West Virginia.
Habitat and Behavior
Coyotes in West Virginia demonstrate remarkable adaptability, thriving in diverse environments from rural forests and agricultural lands to suburban fringes and urban areas. They are highly opportunistic omnivores, meaning their diet is varied. Their diet commonly includes small mammals like rodents, rabbits, and squirrels, as well as insects, fruits, berries, and carrion. In populated areas, they may also scavenge on garbage and pet food.
Coyotes are generally most active at night or during early morning and late evening hours, though they may be active during the day in areas where human disturbance is minimal. They are typically solitary or live in small family groups, often consisting of a breeding pair and their offspring. They use sheltered areas such as burrows, hollow trees, rock crevices, thick underbrush, and spaces under sheds and decks as dens, especially when raising young. Their home range sizes can vary significantly, averaging around 12.48 square kilometers.
Coexisting with Coyotes
Living alongside coyotes in West Virginia requires awareness and the implementation of practical strategies to minimize potential conflicts. Avoid feeding coyotes, as this can lead to habituation and bolder behavior around humans. Securing trash in animal-proof containers and removing outdoor pet food are important steps to prevent attracting coyotes to residential areas. Removing fallen fruit from trees and cleaning up bird feeder spills also eliminates potential food sources.
To protect pets, it is advisable to keep cats indoors and supervise dogs when they are outside, especially at night. Walking dogs on a leash can significantly reduce the risk of encounters. Fencing can also offer protection; a coyote-proof fence should be at least six feet high and extend underground to prevent digging. If a coyote is encountered, act aggressively by shouting, waving arms, or throwing objects to deter the animal, never running or turning your back. Reporting aggressive or fearless coyotes to local wildlife authorities is also encouraged to help manage potential threats.