Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Department, in cooperation with
the Towns of Cornelius and Huntersville, would like to provide the
community some brief information on coyotes and what to do in the
event that you encounter one.
Identifying Coyotes - Coyotes stand 23-26 inches tall and usually
weigh between 30 and 40 pounds. They are predominantly brownish-gray,
but colors can vary between individuals and by season. There are four
identifying characteristics that can help distinguish a coyote from a
small dog:
· Long slender snout
· Large erect ears
· A thick round bushy tail
· A stiff-legged lope, usually noticeable unless they are in
an all-out sprint.
Behavior
Coyotes are highly adaptable and very intelligent. They are
opportunistic and often eat what is easiest to catch, feeding on many
different food sources. While they feed primarily on ever-abundant
rodents, they also eat rabbits, carrion (dead animals), ground nesting
birds/eggs, young fawns, reptiles, amphibians, insects and wild fruits
like persimmons. In areas with high human populations, they may eat
fruits and vegetables from gardens as well as refuse from trashcans
and dump sites. They have also been documented to prey on small
livestock and domestic animals. Cats and very small dogs are
vulnerable, particularly if left out at night. In order to avoid
humans, coyotes are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active
at night. Large dogs are seen as competition and coyotes will
naturally react in a territorial manner toward a dog of equal or
larger size. Coyote attacks on people are very rare and none have
been documented locally. Unless coyotes are being actively fed by
humans or are sick, they will keep their distance from people and
their leashed pets. Thus, it is very important to keep dogs on leashes
and an eye on domesticated cats that are allowed outside.
History
Coyotes were first spotted in North Carolina as early as the late
1930's but did not successfully establish themselves as part of the
natural wildlife until the late 1980's. The eastern expansion of this
species is due primarily to two human-induced factors. First, the
killing of red and gray wolves opened up habitat usable by coyotes.
Second, the illegal public release of coyotes into the eastern U.S.
for hunting resulted in the successful establishment of sustainable
local populations. Currently, coyotes are considered a natural part
of our wildlife County-wide and occupy an important role as a top-
level predator. With their successful establishment, it is not
feasible or cost-effective to develop a trapping or removal program
unless specific individuals exhibit behavior associated with diseases,
such as rabies.
Coyote Safety Tips
· Never approach or touch a coyote.
· Never feed coyotes or any wild animal directly or indirectly.
· Remember the buddy rule (go with a friend) while visiting a
park, nature preserve or greenway.
· Since our parks, nature preserves and greenways are home to
many birds, rodents and other small mammals, do not be surprised if
you see a coyote. In fact, you should expect to see them since they
are a part of our local wildlife.
· In order to protect pets, pet owners and wildlife,
responsible pet owners should keep pets on a leash, because, it's the
law! *
· An unattended small dog or cat can be easy prey for coyotes.
Do not walk small dogs at night and cats should remain indoors as much
as possible.
· Viewing coyotes from a distance is a great and rewarding
experience! However, if you feel uncomfortable, use the following
techniques to maintain distance between you and coyotes:
o throw sticks,
o yell,
o wave your arms, and/or
o spray them with a hose.
These actions will help keep a den from being located nearby and will
help them maintain an appropriate level of fear of humans.
· At your home:
o Fence off outside animal enclosures and include a top. Coyotes can
jump a 6' high fence.
o Enclose the bottom of porches and maintain outdoor storage sheds
in a manner that prevents animals from using them as cover.
o Remove thick brush and weeds around homes that may harbor rodents.
The presence of rodents may attract coyotes.
For additional information on coyotes, contact the Mecklenburg County
Park and Recreation's Natural Resources Division at 704-432-4531.
