Coyotes are present throughout Tennessee. These adaptable canids thrive in various environments, extending their range and population. They are now a common part of Tennessee’s wildlife.
Coyote Presence and Distribution in Tennessee
Coyotes were largely unknown in Tennessee before the 20th century. They began moving eastward into Tennessee during the 1960s and early 1970s, with initial occurrences reported primarily in the western part of the state. By the mid-1970s, they were frequently reported in counties west of the Tennessee River, and today, they are well-established throughout all 95 counties.
The adaptability of coyotes allows them to inhabit a wide range of environments. They are found in rural areas, including fields and forests, and inhabit suburban landscapes and even urban centers. Agricultural lands, shrublands, and green spaces within cities are utilized as long as food sources are available.
Understanding Coyote Behavior
Coyotes are opportunistic feeders. While small mammals and rabbits constitute a significant portion of their food intake, they also consume various other animal foods, including rodents, insects, and some plant matter like persimmons. They scavenge on carrion, including deer and livestock, often targeting young, old, or sick animals.
While coyotes are often considered nocturnal, activity patterns vary. They are most active during twilight and nighttime, but they may be seen during the day, especially when they are rearing their pups or in areas where human disturbance is minimal. Coyotes communicate through a range of vocalizations, including yips, barks, and howls. A common call is two short barks followed by a long, wavering yodel. A typical coyote social unit consists of a breeding pair and their offspring.
Living Alongside Coyotes
Coexisting with coyotes involves mitigating conflicts by removing attractants. Secure food sources by keeping trash in tightly sealed containers and pet food should be fed indoors or removed promptly if fed outside. Bird feeders can also attract small prey, which in turn draws coyotes, so their placement should be considered.
Protecting pets requires vigilance, particularly for smaller animals. Pets should be supervised, kept on a leash, and brought indoors at night, as small dogs and cats can be perceived as prey.
To deter coyotes from your property, methods such as hazing—making loud noises, shouting, or throwing small objects like rocks—can be effective in reinforcing their natural wariness of humans. Physical barriers, such as fences at least six feet high with a bottom extending six inches below ground, also help. Maintaining a tidy yard by clearing brush and weeds reduces cover for their prey, making the area less appealing to coyotes. If a coyote encounter occurs, making yourself appear large and making loud noises can encourage the animal to leave. Children should not be left unattended in areas where coyotes have been frequently sighted.