Coyotes are highly adaptable predators common in urban and suburban environments across North America. The presence of backyard bird feeders often raises concerns about attracting these wild canids. Coyotes are opportunistic; while bird seed is not a primary dietary component, the activity it encourages can draw them into residential yards. The attraction is a mix of a direct food source (the seed itself) and an indirect one (the concentration of small prey animals).
Coyote Diet and Opportunistic Feeding
Coyotes are omnivores, and their diet shifts based on what is available. Their natural diet primarily consists of small mammals (rabbits, mice, and voles), complemented by insects, fruits, and carrion. This flexibility allows them to adapt successfully to human-dominated landscapes. The direct consumption of bird seed is a low-value, occasional food source. Studies show coyotes will eat accessible seeds, but grains do not offer the high protein and fat content they require and are poorly digested.
The Primary Attractants Near Feeders
The main reason a coyote investigates a bird feeder area is the concentration of potential prey it creates, not the seed itself. Spilled seed accumulating on the ground feeds rodents, including mice, voles, rats, and squirrels. These small mammals are the preferred and nutritionally complete part of the coyote’s diet, turning the area beneath a feeder into a hunting ground. Coyotes also view birds as a food source, especially those that are sick or preoccupied with feeding. Other attractants also draw coyotes into the yard, such as accessible outdoor pet food, unsecured garbage, or standing water.
Removing Coyote Food Sources
To discourage coyotes, eliminate all potential food sources, both direct and indirect. A primary step is preventing the accumulation of spilled seed on the ground, which supports the rodent population. Daily raking or sweeping up discarded seed is necessary, or using a catch tray beneath the feeder can contain the debris. Storing all bird seed and pet food in secured, airtight containers indoors eliminates attractants coyotes can smell. If feeding pets outside, remove all food and water bowls immediately, and secure garbage cans with tight-fitting, animal-proof lids.
Hazing Techniques
If a coyote is spotted, use hazing to reinforce its natural wariness of humans. This involves making loud noises, such as yelling or using an air horn, or throwing small, non-harmful objects like a tennis ball in its direction. This action teaches the coyote that residential areas are not safe spaces to forage, preventing habituation and bolder behavior.