Coyotes are a natural part of our urban environment, and understanding their behavior can help us coexist safely. With coyote mating season occurring from January to March, it’s important to take precautions to keep pets and people safe while respecting local wildlife.

Coyote Behavior in Urban Areas

Coyotes are not typically a danger to humans and will usually flee when encountering people. However, they do prey on small animals, including rodents, rabbits, squirrels, and even domestic pets. Keeping your pets safe is crucial if you know coyotes are present in your area.

How to Identify a Coyote

Coyotes weigh between 20-40 pounds and have distinctive features:

Erect, pointed ears

Slender muzzle

Bushy tail that hangs downward

Brownish-grey fur with reddish tones behind the ears and on the face

Yellow eyes with large pupils (unlike dogs, which typically have brown or blue eyes)

Coloration can vary from grey to black, making it easy to mistake a coyote for a stray dog. Knowing these characteristics can help you distinguish between the two.

Precautions During Coyote Mating Season

From January to March, coyotes are more active, making it essential to take extra precautions:

Don’t let your pets outside unattended, especially at dawn and dusk.

Avoid tying pets outside, as they can become vulnerable targets.

Use non-slip martingale collars or harnesses when walking dogs to prevent escape if a coyote is encountered.

Keep pets on a leash and carry deterrents like a whistle or stick to scare off predators.

Secure trash cans and remove food sources like pet food or fallen fruit to avoid attracting coyotes.

What to Do If You See a Coyote

Never approach or feed a coyote. Feeding them can make them lose their natural fear of humans.

Make loud noises, wave your arms, or throw small objects to scare them away.

Report aggressive coyote behavior to local authorities.

If a coyote is near your home, reinforce fencing and remove any potential food sources to deter visits.

Who to Call for Coyote Concerns

Coyotes fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Wildlife Commission, which does not typically respond to coyote sightings unless there is direct contact with humans or pets.

For general questions or concerns, contact NC Wildlife at 919-707-0030.

If you or your pet come into contact with a coyote, call 311 to file a report.

If you need nuisance wildlife removal, private animal removal companies can assist.

Coexisting with Coyotes

Coyotes are an important part of our ecosystem, helping to control rodent populations. By taking these proactive measures, we can minimize conflicts and ensure a safe environment for both people and wildlife.

For more information, visit the NC Wildlife resources on coexisting with coyotes, coyote behavior, and trapping guidelines.

Staying Safe Around Coyotes: What You Need to Know