Coyotes are venturing into our neighborhoods more and more, drawn by easy meals and shelter. While they may seem harmless at first, their presence can disrupt local ecosystems, endanger pets, and create other safety concerns. Taking proactive steps to make your yard uninviting can discourage coyotes from lingering. Here are ten practical steps to keep them at bay.
1. Keep Trash Secure and Odor-Free
Coyotes are opportunistic feeders, and unsecured trash is like a buffet for them. Invest in heavy-duty trash cans with tight, locking lids to keep scents contained. If possible, store the bins inside a garage or shed. Wash them regularly to remove lingering smells, especially from food scraps. If you live in a coyote-prone area, avoid leaving the trash out the night before collection—it’s safer to take it out early in the morning instead. By removing easy access to food, you’re sending a clear message that your yard isn’t worth their time.
2. Build a Fence They Can’t Breach
A sturdy fence is one of the most reliable defenses against coyotes. Aim for a fence that’s at least six feet tall, and add a foot of buried fencing to prevent digging. To thwart climbers, install coyote rollers or angled extensions on top. Wooden fences without gaps work best, as coyotes can squeeze through surprisingly small spaces. Regularly inspect your fencing for weak spots or holes and repair them immediately. A well-built fence creates a physical barrier that significantly reduces the chances of a coyote wandering in.
3. Add Bright Lights to Your Yard
Coyotes prefer to operate under the cover of darkness. Installing motion-activated lights in key areas of your yard can startle and deter them. Place lights near entry points, garbage bins, and areas where pets play. Bright, sudden illumination disrupts their sense of safety, encouraging them to move along. Additionally, lights offer the bonus of improved visibility for you and your family. Over time, coyotes will learn to avoid your well-lit property altogether.
4. Remove Attractants Like Pet Food and Fruit
Coyotes are not picky eaters—they’ll happily snack on anything from pet food to fallen fruit. Feed pets indoors or immediately remove any leftover food from outdoor bowls. If you have fruit trees, regularly pick up any windfall to prevent coyotes from scavenging. Compost bins should be tightly sealed, as they can also attract unwanted visitors. By eliminating these temptations, you’re depriving coyotes of easy meals and discouraging their return.
5. Protect Pets with Extra Care
Coyotes may see small pets as easy prey. Supervise cats and dogs if and when they’re outside, especially during early morning or evening hours when coyotes are most active. Keep pets indoors overnight and use a leash for walks in areas where coyotes are common. For added safety, consider coyote-proof kennels with reinforced tops and sides. Taking these precautions ensures your furry friends stay safe, even if coyotes lurk nearby.
6. Make Your Yard Noisy and Uncomfortable
Coyotes are naturally skittish and avoid areas where they feel threatened. Creating noise can help reinforce that your yard isn’t a safe place. Equip yourself with tools like air horns, whistles, or even pots and pans to make a racket if you spot one nearby. Motion-activated devices that emit sound can also work wonders. Over time, coyotes will associate your property with unpleasant disturbances and look elsewhere for shelter.
7. Install Motion-Activated Sprinklers
Water can be a surprising deterrent for coyotes. Motion-activated sprinklers deliver an unexpected spray when triggered, startling intruders and encouraging them to leave. Position these sprinklers near high-risk areas like garden beds or pet enclosures. The sudden burst of water is harmless but effective, creating an environment coyotes are unlikely to revisit. Plus, your plants get a little extra hydration!
8. Trim Vegetation to Reduce Cover
Coyotes are drawn to areas where they can hide and feel secure. Keep your yard tidy by trimming overgrown bushes, cutting back tall grass, and clearing away piles of debris. Removing hiding spots makes your yard less appealing, as coyotes are less likely to linger in open spaces where they feel exposed. A well-maintained yard also allows you to spot any wildlife sooner, giving you more time to react appropriately.
9. Use Scents Coyotes Dislike
Certain smells can repel coyotes very effectively. Commercial coyote repellents, typically made from predator urine or other strong scents, can be applied around the perimeter of your yard. Alternatively, you can use homemade solutions like ammonia-soaked rags or vinegar. Reapply these repellents regularly, especially after rain, to maintain their effectiveness, and make sure to keep them away from pets. While scents alone won’t keep coyotes away entirely, they can be a helpful addition to your overall strategy.
10. Work with Your Neighbors
Coyotes adapt quickly, so a community effort is often necessary to discourage their presence. Share prevention tips with neighbors and encourage them to secure trash, remove attractants, and avoid feeding wildlife. If coyotes know the entire neighborhood is unfriendly, they’ll likely move on to easier territory. Additionally, report any aggressive coyote behavior to local wildlife authorities—they can offer guidance or intervene if needed.
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