Act when Near a Coyote

Coyotes are a member of the canine family and are often found in wilderness areas. While they may be known as cute, cuddly animals from TV, coyotes are wild animals, and should be treated with respect. Follow this guide to safely avoid a confrontation with a coyote.

Steps

Defending Yourself at Close Range

  1. Look at the coyote while slowly backing away. Maintain eye contact. Coyotes are generally frightened of people and will not confront you.
  2. Make yourself as large and imposing-looking as possible. This can be achieved by holding your backpack above your head or opening up your jacket.
  3. Shout or yell to frighten the coyote. Keep making noise.
  4. Throw sticks or rocks to scare away the coyote.

Dealing With an Entire Pack

Coyotes are known to live in a pack, so be careful.[1]

  1. Do not approach a pack.
    • Give them ample space.
  2. Don't stare at any of the coyotes or act threatening toward them.
  3. Most coyotes prefer to avoid human contact, so follow the above instructions make lots of noise.
    • Once coyotes become aware of a human presence, they will probably avoid you.

Staying Safe in Coyote Territory

  1. Be vigilant with your children and pets. Make sure they don't get too close, since they can be drawn towards animals.

Tips

  • If you are camping with a pet, keep them somewhere where they can't easily escape. It may attract wild animals like coyotes.
  • If you get bitten by a coyote, seek medical attention right away!
  • Don't keep any food inside a the tent as this attracts wild animals. Make sure that you hang all your food in a tree or keep it in a place far from your camp. This includes strong smelling "non-food" items such as toothpaste, deodorant and soap.
  • To scare a coyote away make a lot of noise.
  • If you have a flashlight then flicker it on and off to distract them.
  • It is very very important to maintain eye contact if you take your eyes off of the coyote for a second it will attack you.

Warnings

  • Never run from a coyote. It can run much faster than you.
  • Never try to feed a coyote. Feeding wild animals is illegal in the U.S. and Canada, and could result in injury if the animal were to bite you.
  • Coyotes often attack humans to protect their pup's lives. Take care not to go too close to a coyote pup.
  • Never let your child or pet interact with a coyote!

Related Articles

Sources and Citations

  1. ↑ Dog owner's guide to coyotes and other members of the Canine family
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