Fall brings urban Coyotes closer to neighborhoods as populations of wild babies decreases and young solitary animals forage out to hunt .
Coyotes usually hunt in packs but dominant males chase younger males away from the females and the young males become solitary hunters. Solitary males hunting range has been documented to extend 10 miles or more while the packs hunting range is slightly shorter. They dont actually live in neighborhoods but they tend to develop patterns of hunt and they can frequent the same areas if food is available and abundant.
Packs hunt together and are usually a threat to larger prey (deer) because of their group hunt ability. Packs of coyotes tend to stay further from homes around larger prey as their hunt ability is greater.
Solitary males must hunt smaller prey within their own capture ability taking ie rats, rabbits, cats, dogs, poultry etc.
They are highly adaptable and learn quickly to jump fences and avoid obstacles.
While they tend to return to hunt territories, solitary males are somewhat nomadic and they extend their hunting range as food supplies are available. These are the coyotes most often in residential areas.
Depredation and relocation measures to control coyote populations have historically failed and actually have increased coyote numbers as breeding increases with lower population numbers and more pups survive when there is less competition for the food supply.
Pet owners should be aware that coyotes pose a constant risk and their amazing adaptability brings them ever closer to homes and pets. Peak hunt times are dusk and dawn but anytime through the night is a danger to pets. Coyotes (solitary males) desperate for food or inexperienced have also been known to attack during the day although it is not as common.
Dont ever leave pets unattended.
Dont leave pet food outside
Secure poultry/rabbits etc
Use fencing (it helps)
Keep cats inside -esp at night.
Dont leave available garbage
Pick surplus fruit from trees
Be mindful of surroundings and dont take anything for granted. Although its unusual, Young inexperienced males have been documented to optimistically challenge larger prey on their own.
Forewarned is forearmed. Stay safe and keeps pets inside and under watchful eye.??
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