Pet owners are being reminded that coyote encounters are more likely during breeding season, which runs through the end of this month. Wildlife Damage Biologist Patrice Pyatt for the Missouri Department of Conservation said coyotes range farther during breeding season.
“Even if you have one of those electric fences, you still need to accompany your pet outside just in case there would be some type of altercation between the two of them,” Pyatt said.
Coyotes are also scavengers and can thrive in urban areas eating a variety of food, including household garbage. To minimize encounters, she said to avoid leaving food outside and securely cover your trash. Use scare tactics like loud noises to deter coyotes.
“You know, just keeping an eye on things that is going on around the area — doing a little bit of surveillance — is always a good idea,” she explained. “Harassment works very well with coyotes. They always respond usually in a good way to that.”
One example includes carrying a small air horn with you while hiking through the woods. Pets should not be left unattended outside, especially during dusk, nighttime, and dawn when coyotes are most active.
Click here for more information.
Copyright © 2025 Missourinet