Interacting with Coyotes

People and coyotes have coexisted in relative peace for many decades. You may have even seen a coyote out on your visits to Louisville Open Space. Coyotes in urban areas thrive as there is an abundance of food, water, and shelter for them. With such close interaction with coyotes, they have become habituated to our presence and have become less fearful. Although, coyotes pose little threat to us, it is still important to know what to do when you come across one. You can follow these simple guidelines to help prevent any unwanted conflicts with coyotes:

• Do not leave your pets or small children unsupervised in your yard
• Install fences at least 6 feet tall. Check with your HOA
• NEVER leave any food out for animals or your pets. Most coyote attacks have occurred from coyotes that have been fed by humans
• Remove any other attractants to coyotes from your yard. For a list of common attractants please view this checklist.

• While it is more common to see coyotes at dusk and dawn, they may also be out during midday. This especially common during the winter when food is scarce and February through May when coyotes are breeding and rearing pups
• Coyotes are very inquisitive animals and will often stop and watch your activity. They may even follow you for a short distance.

• Snarling, baring teeth at humans
• Chasing or stalking (crouching low to the ground and hiding behind objects while following)

More information on coyotes from Colorado Parks and Wildlife:

• Colorado Parks and Wildlife: Living with Coyotes
• Most Commonly Asked Questions About Urban Coyotes
• Your Guide to Avoiding Human-Coyote Conflicts
• Coyote Exclusions, Deterrents, and Repellents
• Coyote Conflicts in Your Neighborhood

• Coyote are Active in this Area Warning Sign

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