Indian Hill Rangers

Coyote

 

Coyotes in the Community

 

     It is well known that coyotes live in the community. In fact, coyotes are known to inhabit every county in the State of Ohio. Many times a year, the Rangers receive calls from concerned residents who see or hear a coyote. Coyotes breed during the months of January and February, with a gestation period of about 63 days. In April and May, when the pups are born, coyotes are more visible and vocal, as the adults are hunting for food at all hours of the day. Normally, coyotes are considered nocturnal, hunting at night, but in a secure environment, they will hunt during the day. It is this time of year when we do get calls regarding domestic animal attacks. Coyotes are omnivorous, meaning they will eat what is available to them, such as small mammals (voles, shrews, rabbits, and mice), vegetables, nuts and carrion. Unchecked, they will eat livestock, particularly sheep and chickens.

 

     As a resident, what do I need to know or do to prevent a coyote attack? What does the City do to control the coyote population?

 

     Coyotes are timid around humans. It is rare for a coyote to attack a human. Known attacks to humans are associated with the animal being rabid. Domestic animals should be monitored, especially during the early morning and evening hours. Smaller dogs and cats are more likely to be attacked. Residents should watch their wood line for coyotes. Monitoring the wood line and watching pets is the key to protecting them while they are outside, particularly from dusk to dawn.

     Education is the key to understanding these animals. It is strongly recommended that if you see or hear a coyote in your area, to watch your dogs, cats, and livestock. Research coyotes on your own to better understand them. The link below to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Division, is a great website to check out. Teach your children about them. As a property owner, do your part to not attract them (keep garbage secured, do not put pet food outside, watch animals outside).

     The city’s policy on coyotes is that we do not hunt them. There will be an attempt to destroy confirmed aggressive or nuisance coyotes in a general area. Trapping is not done, as they can be dangerous to other animals and children. It is important to understand that by destroying one or two coyotes does not make your pet safer or eliminate the problem that may be in your area.

 

QUICK  COYOTE  FACTS

Monogamous– Male and female pair for life
Peak breeding is from January thru March
Litter size is 1 to 12 pups
Young are born April—May and leave den around 3 weeks
Dens are dug under uprooted trees, logs or thickets, with an entrance of 1-2 feet across, about 5-15 feet long, terminating with an enlarged chamber. May have several dens and move from one to another
Are territorial and very protective of young 
Very wary, with remarkable sense of smell and exceptional sight