Question:
A big coyote has been spotted in our neighborhood. This is a dangerous animal, and I worry about my grandchildren visiting and it killing my cats who get out on the yard.
Jun 27, 2011
Answer:
Rest assured that coyotes are fearful of humans, but they have been known to kill small pets who are left out unsupervised.
The war against the coyote, with traps, poisoned bait, shotguns, cyanide guns and the like -- along with state bounties and millions of dollars of public funds misspent in vain attempts to control their numbers -- have not deterred this wily survivor from spreading across much of the United States. Some have crossbred with dogs and wolves. For more details, and ways to live in harmony with this incredible cousin of wolf and dog, visit www.projectcoyote.org.
Many municipalities have found successful ways to reduce coyote and other wildlife-human conflicts. Regarding coyotes, keep all garbage secured or shut away in a shed. Do not put food out unless it is in birdfeeders and never let cats and small dogs outdoors unsupervised. Always keep pets on a leash when off your property, which is an animal- control ordinance in many communities, along with rabies vaccinations and collar tags.
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