Coyotes are adaptable wild canids found across North American landscapes, from rural areas to urban environments. Their increasing presence in human-dominated areas often sparks questions and concerns regarding potential interactions and attacks. Understanding coyote behavior and the circumstances that can lead to conflict is important for safely coexisting with these animals.
Assessing the Risk to Humans
Coyote attacks on humans are remarkably rare occurrences. The probability of such an incident is extremely low, especially compared to common risks like dog bites. Coyotes are naturally shy animals that typically avoid human contact, usually fleeing at the sight of a person. Their inherent wariness helps maintain a natural distance. The vast majority of encounters are harmless.
Factors Contributing to Aggression
Despite their general shyness, certain factors can lead coyotes to exhibit aggressive behavior. A primary reason is habituation, occurring when coyotes lose their natural fear of humans due to consistent access to human-provided food. This makes them bolder and more likely to approach people, associating humans with food sources. Unsecured garbage, outdoor pet food, and fallen fruit are common attractants.
Disease, particularly rabies, can also cause coyotes to behave erratically and aggressively. A rabid coyote might appear lethargic, disoriented, or unusually fearless. Another factor is the protection of pups or den sites, especially during late spring and summer. A female coyote may act defensively if she perceives a threat to her young.
Coyotes may also display predatory behavior, occasionally mistaking small pets or even small children for prey. This is more likely in areas where coyotes are highly habituated to humans or experiencing food scarcity. When natural food sources are limited, coyotes may become bolder in their search for sustenance.
Minimizing Risk and Preventing Encounters
To reduce the likelihood of negative coyote encounters, implement several prevention strategies. Eliminating potential food sources is crucial; secure garbage in wildlife-proof containers, never leave pet food outdoors, and promptly pick up fallen fruit. Bird feeders can also indirectly attract coyotes by drawing in rodents, a primary food source.
Protecting pets requires diligent supervision, especially during dawn and dusk when coyotes are most active. Cats should be kept indoors, and dogs, particularly smaller breeds, must be supervised closely and kept on a short leash. Fencing can deter coyotes; a fence should be at least 6 to 8 feet high and extend a foot or more underground to prevent digging. Adding coyote rollers or angled extensions to the top of fences makes climbing more difficult.
“Hazing” coyotes is an effective method to reinforce their natural fear of humans. This involves making yourself appear large and loud by yelling, waving your arms, or throwing small objects toward the coyote. Using noisemakers like whistles or air horns, or spraying water from a hose, can also be successful.
Responding to a Threatening Coyote
If you encounter a coyote that appears aggressive or approaches directly, your response can influence the outcome. Never run from a coyote, as this can trigger their natural chase instinct. Instead, stand your ground and immediately make yourself appear as large and intimidating as possible. Wave your arms overhead, stomp your feet, and yell loudly. Maintaining direct eye contact can also be effective.
If you have children or small pets, pick them up immediately. While continuing to face the coyote, slowly back away to create distance. Do not turn your back, and continue to be loud and assertive until the coyote retreats. If a coyote exhibits persistent aggressive behavior, or if an attack occurs, report the incident to local animal control or wildlife authorities.