Coyotes are clever and adaptable animals. They can be found everywhere, from forests and mountains to parks and even cities! While they usually keep to themselves, sometimes they can become a nuisance, especially if they start coming close to homes looking for food.
If you’re having trouble with coyotes in your area, don’t worry, there are things you can do to get rid of them! This article will teach you how to keep coyotes away safely and humanely.
Understanding Coyote Behavior
Before we learn how to get rid of coyotes, it helps to understand why they might be hanging around your property. Coyotes are natural hunters, and they’re always on the lookout for an easy meal.
This means things like pet food, garbage, and even fallen fruit from your trees can attract them. They might also be attracted to places where they can find shelter, like bushes, sheds, or decks.
How to Get Rid of Coyotes Humanely
The best way to get rid of coyotes is to make your property less appealing to them. This means removing the things that attract them and making them feel uncomfortable. Here are some simple things you can do:
Secure Food Sources
- Keep your garbage safe: Make sure your garbage cans are tightly closed and stored in a secure area. You can also use bungee cords to keep the lids on extra tight.
- Feed your pets indoors: Don’t leave pet food outside, and if you must feed your pets outdoors, pick up any leftover food right away.
- Clean up fallen fruit: If you have fruit trees, pick up any fruit that falls to the ground.
- Cover your compost: Make sure your compost bin is securely covered.
Make Your Yard Less Inviting
- Trim your bushes: Coyotes like to hide in bushes and tall grass. Keep your yard trimmed and clear of debris.
- Close off spaces under decks and sheds: These can be attractive den sites for coyotes. Use wire mesh to block access.
- Remove standing water: Empty any containers that collect water, like old tires or buckets.
Scare Them Away
- Make loud noises: If you see a coyote, make loud noises to scare it away. You can yell, clap your hands, or use a noisemaker.
- Spray them with water: A hose or water gun can be effective in deterring coyotes.
- Use motion-activated sprinklers: These will spray water when they sense movement, giving coyotes an unwelcome surprise.
Coyote Deterrents
You can also try using deterrents to keep coyotes away:
- Scent deterrents: Coyotes have a strong sense of smell. You can use things like vinegar, ammonia, or commercial coyote repellents to make your yard smell unpleasant to them.
- Taste deterrents: You can spray plants or other areas with bitter-tasting substances to discourage coyotes from chewing or digging.
| Deterrent Type | Examples | How to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Scent Deterrents | Vinegar, ammonia, predator urine, commercial coyote repellent | Soak rags in the solution and place them around the perimeter of your property. Reapply regularly, especially after rain. |
| Taste Deterrents | Bitter apple spray, hot pepper spray | Spray on plants, fences, and other areas where you want to deter coyotes. Reapply regularly. |
Fencing
- Install a fence: A tall fence (at least 6 feet high) can help keep coyotes out of your yard. Make sure the fence is buried at least 1 foot underground to prevent digging.
- Use coyote rollers: These are devices that attach to the top of your fence and make it difficult for coyotes to climb over.
Important Considerations for Getting Rid of Coyotes
- Hazing Techniques: Hazing is a method of using deterrents to make coyotes feel uncomfortable and unwelcome in your yard. To be effective, hazing needs to be done consistently and with a variety of methods. You can find more information on hazing techniques from resources like the Humane Society of the United States.
- Trapping and Hunting: In some areas, trapping or hunting coyotes may be legal with the proper permits. However, these methods should only be used as a last resort and carried out by professionals. Lethal control methods can disrupt the natural balance and may lead to an increase in coyote populations in the long run.
- Professional Wildlife Control: If you’re having serious problems with coyotes, you may want to contact a professional wildlife control company. They can help you identify the source of the problem and recommend the best course of action.
Coexisting with Coyotes
It’s important to remember that coyotes are a natural part of the ecosystem. They play an important role in controlling rodent populations. By taking some simple precautions, you can coexist peacefully with coyotes and reduce the chances of conflict.
Here are some tips for coexisting with coyotes:
- Be aware of your surroundings: When you’re out walking, especially at dawn or dusk, be aware of your surroundings and keep your dog on a leash.
- Don’t feed coyotes: Never intentionally feed coyotes. This will only make them more likely to approach humans.
- Teach children about coyotes: Explain to children that coyotes are wild animals and should not be approached.
Summary: How to Keep Coyotes Away
Coyotes can be a nuisance, but there are many ways to get rid of them humanely and effectively. By securing food sources, making your yard less inviting, using deterrents, and taking precautions, you can reduce the likelihood of coyote encounters and protect your property and pets. Remember, the key to successful coyote management is to be proactive and consistent with your efforts.
FAQs: Coyotes
Can I use mothballs to get rid of coyotes?
Mothballs are not a recommended method for getting rid of coyotes. They are toxic and can be harmful to pets and other animals.
What should I do if I see a coyote in my yard?
If you see a coyote in your yard, make loud noises to scare it away. You can yell, clap your hands, or use a noisemaker. You can also try spraying the coyote with water from a hose or water gun.
Will a dog keep coyotes away?
While a dog may deter coyotes to some extent, it’s not a guarantee. Coyotes may see small dogs as prey, and even large dogs can be injured in a confrontation with a coyote. It’s best to supervise your dog when it’s outside, especially at dawn and dusk when coyotes are most active.
Is it safe to let my cat outside if there are coyotes in the area?
Cats are at risk of becoming prey for coyotes. It’s best to keep your cat indoors, especially at night.
Where can I get more information about coyotes?
You can find more information about coyotes from your local wildlife agency or the Humane Society of the United States. They can provide you with resources and advice on how to deal with coyotes in your area.