Coyotes are increasingly seen in human-populated areas, raising concerns about their ability to navigate fences. Understanding their agility is important for property owners seeking to protect their homes and pets. This article explores the physical capabilities of coyotes concerning fences, the factors influencing their navigation, and effective strategies for property protection.
How High Coyotes Can Jump
Coyotes possess remarkable athleticism, often clearing fences up to 6 feet from a standing position. Their jumping technique involves extending upward, grasping the fence top with front paws, then pushing off with hind legs. Highly motivated individuals can clear 8 feet or more, especially with a running start or something to climb on.
Their powerful hind legs and flexible bodies allow impressive vertical leaps and balanced landings. Coyotes can also scale fences, reaching 14 to 16 feet on chain-link fences that offer footholds.
Factors Affecting Coyote Fence Navigation
Coyotes employ various methods to bypass fences, influenced by factors beyond their jumping ability. Their motivation, often stemming from hunger, seeking mates, or escaping threats, significantly increases their determination to breach a barrier. If food sources like small pets or unsecured garbage are detected, they are highly motivated to gain access.
The type and condition of a fence also play a role. Chain-link fences, with their mesh structure, offer easy toeholds, allowing coyotes to climb. Solid fences may be jumped directly, but any gaps, loose panels, or insufficient height can be exploited.
The surrounding environment can also provide aids for fence navigation. Nearby objects such as trash cans, woodpiles, or natural features like large rocks or snowdrifts can serve as a “launchpad,” enabling them to more easily jump or climb over a fence.
Coyotes are also adept at digging under fences, creating passageways, especially when seeking food. They can also squeeze through surprisingly small openings, sometimes as narrow as 3 to 4 inches, due to their flexible rib cages and slender bodies.
Protecting Your Property from Coyotes
Protecting property from coyotes requires a multi-faceted approach, starting with fence modifications. Installing “coyote rollers” on top of fences prevents climbing, as these cylindrical devices spin when an animal tries to grip them. Fences should be at least 6 feet tall, with 7 to 8 feet recommended for enhanced security. To prevent digging, extend fences underground with wire mesh, often in an L-shaped footer, with a depth of 12 to 24 inches recommended.
Removing attractants is also a primary deterrent strategy. This includes securing pet food, fallen fruit, and unsecured garbage, as coyotes are opportunistic foragers. Motion-activated lights or sprinklers can startle approaching coyotes and make them wary of the area.
Keeping pets secure, especially at night, and never leaving them unattended, even in fenced yards, is important. Landscaping practices can also deter coyotes. Trimming lower branches of trees and shrubs near fences removes potential climbing aids, while dense barrier plants can make entry more difficult. Maintaining awareness of coyote activity in the neighborhood and understanding their behavior, such as their natural fear of humans, can help in implementing effective deterrents and promoting coexistence.