IMPORTANT POINTS TO REMEMBER
• Coyotes are amazingly adaptable and can survive in nearly any habitat. Providing easy meals for them, eliminates their natural fear of humans and increases their population. Keep wildlife wild!
• Never leave pet food or trash outside where it will attract wildlife.
• Avoid walking dogs during dawn or dusk hours, which are coyotes’ normal feeding times. Avoid useing a retractable leash. Coyotes will notice a dog walked frequently on an extended leash. The coyote will come back, grab the dog, and leave the owner holding an empty leash. When walking a pet, carry a stick, whistle or air horn.
• Clear brush and dense weeds from around dwellings – This reduces cover for coyotes and their prey, such as rodents and other small animals.
• Protect children. Although rare, coyotes have been known to seriously injure children. Do not leave young children unattended, even in a backyard.
• Protect pets and livestock. These are favorite prey for coyotes. Keep pets indoors, especially at night. When not indoors, keep dogs and cats leashed at all times – there is a Pinellas County Ordinance that prohibits dogs or cats roaming freely.
• Use negative reinforcement. Make sure coyotes know that they are not welcome. Harass coyotes with loud noises, clapping hands, yelling, throwing rocks at them, using air horns or spray with a garden hose.