Coyotes are not usually seen by humans, as they are nocturnal animals. However, there were many of them spotted in the daylight lately.
Coyotes may live near you, even if you don’t see them. They live in all states, except for Hawaii. It also can be found in Mexico and Canada. They rarely attack humans, but it’s likely to attack pets during the mating season.
Coyotes usually search for food and a mate in their mating season in December. But also, the peak time is from February to March.
“Do not let your dogs out alone and don’t allow your outdoor cats to roam. Although coyotes are prevalent in outlying and rural areas. They’re also thriving in suburban and urban areas, and smaller towns as well,” the Humane Society of Granville County issued a warning to pet owners. Since it is mating season
The post went on to say, “Male coyotes can become more aggressive during this time of year, the long and short of it all is that coyotes always pose a risk to your dog (and other small pets). That risk increases during mating season.”
The warning is not limited to small pets, large dogs as well. “Spay or neuter your pet. Coyotes are attracted to and can mate with unspayed or unneutered domestic dogs. Unspayed female dogs in season can attract male coyotes. Un-neutered male dogs can be lured away by the scent of a female coyote in her ovulation cycle. Additionally, male dogs can be lured by the female coyote’s scent and killed by male coyotes.”
Coyotes are smart animals that watch and learn routines. “If you let your dog out every evening at 9 p.m., chances are that a coyote is well aware of your routine. He might be waiting in the shadows at 9 p.m. sharp. So change your schedule a bit, walk your dog on the leash close to you, and keep a close eye on them at all times.”
Most coyotes avoid people, but others are too hungry that may take the risk of approaching and attack small dogs, cats, and any all small animals. Officials urge pet owners not to leave their pets outside without supervision, even if they have a fenced yard.
Dan Cosgrove Animal Shelter wrote, “Dogs should not be left outside alone in an electric fenced-in area. Coyotes will jump over even high fences, so please alert your neighbors that they should not feel overly comfortable just because they have a fenced-in yard.”
The Humane Society of the United States also urges pet owners to follow two simple steps to prevent coyote attacks. “Coyotes may mistake small, unattended pets as prey or attack large dogs they view as threats to territory or dens. To keep your animals safe, take two simple steps:
1- Watch your pets. Keep cats indoors, and never leave small dogs outside unsupervised or let any dog out of your yard off-leash.
2. Secure food sources. Store garbage in wildlife-proof containers and feed pets indoors.”
