Prevention & Deterrence
* Secure Food Sources: Coyotes are attracted to food. Secure your garbage in tightly sealed bins, keep pet food indoors, and don't leave uneaten food or scraps outside.
* Remove Attractants: Clean up fallen fruit, birdseed spills, and other potential food sources.
* Fencing: Install a fence at least 6 feet tall with a solid bottom to prevent coyotes from digging under it.
* Motion-Activated Sprinklers: These can startle coyotes and deter them from entering your yard.
* Noise: Loud noises, such as barking dogs, alarms, or even radios can scare coyotes away.
* Motion-Activated Lights: These can help deter coyotes by making your yard less attractive and making it harder for them to hunt.
* Coyote Repellents: Some commercial repellents claim to deter coyotes, but their effectiveness is often debated.
* Wildlife-Friendly Landscaping: Avoid planting dense shrubs and bushes where coyotes can hide. Maintain your lawn and trim back overgrown vegetation.
* Keep Pets Indoors at Night: Coyotes are most active at night. It's best to keep your pets indoors to avoid encounters.
Additional Tips
* Don't Feed Coyotes: Avoid leaving food out for them, even if you think you're helping. This can make them bolder and more likely to approach people.
* Stay Aware: Be aware of your surroundings when you're outside, especially at dusk and dawn.
* Report Sightings: If you see a coyote, report it to your local animal control or wildlife agency.
* Never Approach a Coyote: If you encounter a coyote, do not approach it. Make yourself appear larger by standing tall and waving your arms. Make loud noises to scare it away.
Remember: It's impossible to guarantee that coyotes won't come into your yard. The best approach is to make your property less attractive to them and to be aware of your surroundings.