As temperatures throughout the Adirondacks begin to warm up, the region’s coyote population increases its foraging activities and prepares for new pups to arrive. Although coyotes are well adapted to suburban and urban environments and generally avoid contact with humans, they are more likely to be territorial around their dens throughout the spring and mid-summer.
Photo: Gerry Lemmo
To minimize the likelihood of conflict between people, pets, and coyotes during this time, the Department of Environmental Conservation has issued the following 10 tips.
1. Do not feed coyotes and discourage others from doing so.
2. To reduce the risks posed by unintentional food sources, do not feed pets outside, make any garbage inaccessible, fence or enclose compost piles, and eliminate the availability of bird seed.
3. Do not allow coyotes to approach people or pets.
4. Teach children to appreciate coyotes from a distance.
5. If you see a coyote, be aggressive in your behavior – stand tall, and hold your arms out to look large. If a coyote lingers for too long, make loud noises, wave your arms, and throw sticks and stones.
6. Do not allow pets to run free. Supervise all outdoor pets to keep them safe from coyotes and other wildlife, especially at sunset and at night.
7. Install a fence around your yard, preferably one that is tight to the ground or extends six inches below ground level, and is more than four feet tall.
8. Remove brush and tall grass from your property to reduce protective cover for coyotes.
9. Contact your local police department and NYSDEC regional office for assistance if you notice that coyotes are exhibiting “bold” behaviors and have little or no fear of people.
10. Ask your family and neighbors to follow these same steps.
