COEXIST WITH
Coyotes
If you live in North Carolina, you've probably seen a coyote, or know someone who has. The animal's
unique ability to adapt to a wide range of habitats, including suburban environments, along with rapid
human population growth across the state, has led to an increase in sightings. While in most cases
coyotes are harmless, people can take steps to prevent conflicts with these animals.
MATT KNOTII/ H.K KR
Coyote Quick Facts:
Where did coyotes come from?
Coyotes were once found only in the mid-western portion
of North America. But as Europeans settled across the
country, subsequent landscape changes, coupled with
elimination of wolves, allowed the coyote to expand its
range toward the eastern United States. By the 1980s
coyotes started to appear in western North Carolina as a
result of natural range expansion from our neighboring
states. Coyotes are now established in all 100 counties of
North Carolina and live in many towns.
What do coyotes look like?
Often described as a "mangy-looking dog," coyotes weigh
20-45 pounds (similar to a mid-sized dog) with, typically,
reddish to dark gray thick fur. They have long slender snouts,
a bushy tail, and pointed ears.
Do they make noise?
Yes, coyotes howl. While some find it unnerving, this howl
serves many purposes, none of which are malicious, if you
hear a family of coyotes howling, it is easy to think that the
area is overflowing with coyotes. In reality, there are usually
only 2-6 coyotes, including the pups.
Will coyotes attack me or my child?
Attacks on people, including children, are extremely rare.
Normal coyote behavior is to be curious, but wary, when
close to humans. Like other wildlife, they will become bold
and habituated if people feed them, either purposely or
inadvertently, such as with garbage or outdoor pet food.
They rarely contract rabies.
Will coyotes attack my pet?
Possibly. Coyotes view outdoor cats and small unleashed
dogs as prey, while larger dogs are viewed as threats to
their territory and/or their pups. Coyotes are most likely to
confront larger dogs during the mating and pup birthing
period, January through June.
What should I do if I see a coyote?
Simply seeing a coyote is not cause for alarm. If you see a
coyote frequently, you and your neighbors should take
steps to prevent conflicts with it and other wildlife.
