1. Fencing:
* Height: A sturdy fence at least 6 feet tall is recommended, with a buried bottom section to prevent digging.
* Material: Use strong materials like welded wire mesh or woven wire fencing with small enough openings to prevent coyotes from squeezing through.
* Gates: Ensure gates are securely closed and latched at all times.
2. Livestock Guardian Animals:
* Dogs: Large, protective breeds like Great Pyrenees, Anatolian Shepherds, and Maremmas are known to be excellent guardians.
* Donkeys: Donkeys are assertive and naturally protective of other animals.
* Llamas: Llamas are known for their ability to deter predators with their vocalizations and territorial behavior.
3. Non-lethal Deterrents:
* Motion-activated sprinklers: These can startle and deter coyotes with a burst of water.
* Ultrasonic repellers: These emit high-frequency sounds that coyotes find unpleasant.
* Flashing lights: Bright lights can deter coyotes, especially at night.
* Predator urine: Spraying coyote urine around the perimeter of your property can signal the presence of other coyotes, making them less likely to enter.
4. Habitat Management:
* Remove attractants: Keep your property clean and free of food scraps, pet food, and other potential attractants.
* Eliminate hiding spots: Trim overgrown vegetation and remove brush piles that could provide cover for coyotes.
* Secure garbage: Make sure your garbage cans are securely closed and inaccessible to coyotes.
5. Additional Tips:
* Be vigilant: Regularly check your fence for any damage or weaknesses.
* Monitor your goats: Pay attention to any changes in your goats' behavior, which might indicate coyote presence.
* Educate your neighbors: Encourage your neighbors to follow similar prevention methods.
* Call a wildlife professional: If you have a persistent coyote problem, consider contacting a wildlife removal specialist.
Remember: A combination of these methods is usually most effective. It's important to tailor your approach to the specific circumstances of your property and the local coyote population.