how to deter coyotes from yard

3 min read 18-01-2025

Meta Description: Coyotes in your yard? Learn effective strategies to deter these wild canines without harming them. This comprehensive guide covers fencing, repellents, landscaping, and more to create a coyote-resistant environment. Protect your pets and family with our expert tips!

Understanding Coyote Behavior: The First Step to Deterrence

Before diving into specific deterrence methods, understanding coyote behavior is crucial. Coyotes are opportunistic omnivores, drawn to readily available food sources. They are naturally wary of humans but may become habituated if they find easy access to food or shelter in your yard. This habituation is what we need to prevent.

Why are Coyotes in My Yard?

Several factors attract coyotes to residential areas:

Food sources: Pet food left outside, unsecured garbage, fallen fruit, and even bird feeders can all lure coyotes.
Shelter: Dense vegetation, woodpiles, and sheds provide ideal hiding places.
Water sources: Access to water, whether from a birdbath or a leaky hose, is attractive.

Effective Coyote Deterrents: A Multi-pronged Approach

Deterrence is most effective when using a combination of strategies. Relying on just one method might not be enough to keep coyotes away long-term.

1. Secure Your Property: Physical Barriers

Fencing: A sturdy fence, at least 6 feet tall, with buried wire mesh extending a foot underground, can significantly reduce coyote access. Consider coyote-resistant fencing specifically designed to deter digging.
Gates: Ensure all gates are securely closed and latched. Coyotes are surprisingly adept at opening poorly secured gates.

2. Eliminate Attractants: Removing the Incentive

Pet Food: Never leave pet food outside, even overnight. Store food securely indoors.
Garbage: Use tightly sealed garbage cans and ensure they are emptied regularly. Consider using bear-resistant cans for extra security.
Fallen Fruit: Clean up fallen fruit from trees and bushes promptly.
Bird Feeders: Remove bird feeders, or choose feeders that are coyote-proof. Coyotes will happily prey on birds if given the opportunity.
Compost: Secure your compost pile to prevent access by coyotes and other animals.

3. Repellents: Creating an Unpleasant Environment

Commercial Repellents: Many commercial coyote repellents are available, using scents coyotes find unpleasant. These need to be reapplied regularly, often after rain. Effectiveness varies greatly.
Homemade Repellents: Some homeowners have success using strong-smelling substances like ammonia or pepper spray, but these are less effective than commercial repellents and require frequent reapplication.

4. Landscaping: Reducing Hiding Places

Reduce Cover: Trim overgrown vegetation, remove brush piles, and eliminate any areas where coyotes could easily hide. Maintain a well-lit yard at night to deter coyote activity.
Strategic Planting: Coyotes dislike open spaces. Strategically planting thorny bushes or shrubs along the perimeter of your yard can create a natural barrier.

5. Noise and Motion Deterrents: Scaring Coyotes Away

Motion-activated Sprinklers: These startle coyotes with a sudden burst of water when triggered by motion.
Ultrasonic Devices: These emit high-frequency sounds that are unpleasant to coyotes but generally inaudible to humans and pets. Their effectiveness is debated, with some sources indicating limited success.
Bright Lights: Well-lit yards make it harder for coyotes to hunt undetected.

6. Protecting Pets: Minimizing Risk

Supervised Outdoor Time: Never leave pets unattended outdoors, especially at dawn and dusk, when coyotes are most active.
Secure Kennels: Use secure kennels for pets at night or when unsupervised.
Leash Walks: Always keep dogs on a leash during walks, especially in areas known for coyote activity.

What to Do if You See a Coyote

If you see a coyote, make yourself look large and intimidating. Wave your arms, shout loudly, and throw objects to scare it away. Never approach or feed a coyote. Report any aggressive or habituated coyotes to your local animal control or wildlife agency.

Professional Help: When to Call in the Experts

If you've tried multiple deterrence methods and still have persistent coyote problems, consider contacting a wildlife professional. They can assess your property and provide tailored solutions.

Conclusion: Coexisting with Coyotes

While coyotes can be a concern, it's possible to coexist peacefully with them. By implementing these strategies and prioritizing preventative measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of coyote encounters and create a safer environment for your family and pets. Remember, the key to successful coyote deterrence is a proactive and multifaceted approach.