Things that make coyotes wary:
* Loud noises: Sudden, loud noises like car horns, sirens, or fireworks can scare coyotes away.
* Bright lights: Coyotes are crepuscular (active at dawn and dusk), and they are more likely to be out during the night or low-light conditions. Bright lights can deter them.
* Strong smells: Coyotes have a keen sense of smell, and strong scents like pepper spray, ammonia, or predator urine can be off-putting to them.
* Human presence: Coyotes generally prefer to avoid humans. Regular human activity, like walking, gardening, and yard work, can make them less likely to stick around.
* Other predators: Coyotes can be wary of larger predators like wolves, bears, or mountain lions.
Things that coyotes avoid:
* Secure food sources: Coyotes will avoid areas where food is well-secured, such as garbage bins with tight lids, pet food bowls kept indoors, and properly fenced yards.
* Fences: While coyotes can jump, fences can deter them from accessing areas where they might find food or shelter.
* Defensive dogs: Dogs, especially those that are confident and vocal, can be effective in deterring coyotes.
It's important to note: Coyotes are opportunistic feeders and can adapt to different environments. While the above strategies can help reduce encounters, they might not completely eliminate them. The best way to avoid conflict with coyotes is to be aware of your surroundings, practice proper wildlife management, and follow responsible pet ownership practices.