Coyote Management

 

Coyotes have long been one of the most controversial of all non-game animals. Agriculture interests have urged the control of coyotes by whatever means necessary to eliminate stock losses. However when coyotes are killed the pack compensates for the losses by having more pups and more litters of pups.

 

Environmentalists believe the coyote is necessary to preserve the balance of nature. The coyote has its rightful place in the ecosystem. Most of the coyote diet is made up of destructive rodents. Coyote populationd have no lasting impact on other wildlife populations. Coyotes also aid in the dispersal of seeds. The seeds of the one seed juniper and the Indian manzanita have been found in coyote scat.

 

Coexisting with coyotes

 

  • Do not feed coyotes. They can become easily dependent on human food sources.
  • Never leave pet food outside.
  • Never discard eadible garbage where coyotes can get to it.
  • Secure garbage containers and eliminate their odors. Use a small amount of ammonia or cayenne peper in the garbage to discourage scavaging.
  • Restrict the use of bird seed.
  • If possible, eliminate outdoor sources of water.
  • Trim and clear near ground level any shrubbery that provides cover for coyotes.
  • Use fencing to deter coyotes. The fence must be at least six feet takk with the bottom extending at least six inches bellow the ground level. Augument fencing with outwardly inverted fencing, hot wire, or cement blocks and large rocks buried outside the fence lone to prevent animals from digging into your yard.
  • Actively discourage coyotes by making loud noises and throwing rocks to make them leave.
  • Pick fruit as soon as it ripens and keep rotted fruit off of the ground.
  • Battery opperated flashlights, tape recorded human noises, scattered moth balls and ammonia soaked rags strategically placed may deter coyotes from entering your yard.
  • Keep cats and small doge indoors, allowing them outside under strict supervision.
  • Keep chickens, rabbits and other small animals in well protected areas and in sturdy cages at night.
  • Coyotes are attracted to and can mate with unspayed or unneutered domestic dogs. People living in areas frequented by coyotes should spay or neuter threir dogs.
  • Trapping and relocation of coyotes is not recommended. Coyote pups, though weaned at an early age, may remain with their mother another year helping the mother care for the new pups. Disruption of this pack can mean devistation for the whole group. Suddenly orphaned coyotes can deviate from the norm anf prey on easy game, small dogs, rabbits, chickens, cats, etc. Wild animals are territorial and new animals will move in and take over the territory of the removed coyote.