11/27/2024
Have you noticed more coyotes out and about than usual? Are you hearing them more often at night? It’s dispersal season! Young coyotes are leaving their families to find their place in the world—kind of like kids heading off to college. This increase in sightings doesn’t mean a population boom of coyotes; it’s simply a more noticeable part of their life cycle.
An increase in sightings is not a cause for alarm. Coyotes are naturally afraid of people and prefer to keep their distance. As young coyotes explore new areas, here are some ways we can help them remain good neighbors:
• Secure Food Sources: Feed dogs and cats indoors, secure trash bins, and pick up fallen fruit.
• Keep Companion Animals safe: Keep dogs on leash during walks, especially where coyotes are active. Territorial dogs and excessive barking can sometimes instigate an avoidable encounter. Keep cats indoors.
• Never feed coyotes: Feeding them creates an association between people and food, which can lead to conflict.
• Slow down and watch for wildlife on roadways.
Coyotes are a keystone species. They keep the populations of rodents and rabbits in check, reduce the spread of disease, and support biodiversity.
Source: Project Coyote
Pictured: Coyote on its way to release.
Photo credit: Jesse Pline, WildCareOklahoma
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