SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (KY3) – Coyotes are entering their mating season and will continue seeking mates into March, prompting wildlife experts to urge pet owners to take extra precautions.
While coyotes typically keep their distance from humans, their search for mates and food can bring them closer to residential areas. Sara Karnes with the Missouri Department of Conservation said coyotes can be found in cities as well as rural areas, brushy countryside, and open farmlands.
Although mainly nocturnal, coyotes may appear during daylight hours.
“If you do see them out and about during the day, they’re usually just trying to find their food and get out of there. And, they don’t want to be around others. But, they do prey on smaller animals like rabbits or mice,” Karnes said.
Pet safety recommendations
Smaller dogs and cats can become prey for coyotes, especially those that play, eat, or sleep outdoors. Karnes said pet owners should monitor outdoor feeding and avoid leaving food unattended.
“If they are feeding anything outside, monitor it. Don’t leave it unattended. Try not to leave any food out. If you’re trying to feed those animals, like outdoor cats or anything like that, try to bring that back in,” Karnes said.
Leigh Daniels, co-owner of All About Dogs & Cats, said making noise can deter coyotes during walks.
“You can use an air horn, a whistle, things like that, you would maybe put in your backpack or whatever for your walk. Stomping your feet, just making a lot of noise. The big thing is don’t just turn your back and run,” Daniels said.
Leash recommendations
Daniels advocates keeping small pets under close supervision and recommends standard leashes over retractable models.
“They’re just more difficult to manage. You’ve got to retract it and try to get them pulled back up to you quickly, which sometimes you may not be fast enough to do that. They’re also not as thick, so they can break a little bit easier if the dog is pulling very hard on that leash as well,” Daniels said.
While standard leashes typically measure six feet in length, shorter leashes provide better control. The Missouri Department of Conservation has more information on coyotes, coyote control, and hunting/trapping coyotes.
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