Ever hear coyotes howling at night and wonder if you should worry? Honestly, it’s usually nothing to stress over. Their howling is just how they talk to each other or mark their turf.
They’re not howling to warn you or to celebrate a hunt; it’s just what they do.
Coyotes usually stay shy and keep their distance from people. Most of the time, they mind their own business and don’t bother anyone.
But if you notice a coyote acting bold or hanging around your yard too often, try to scare it off gently. Remind them humans aren’t a food source.
Getting a handle on why coyotes howl and how they act can make those nighttime sounds a lot less scary.
Curious about what coyotes are really up to when you hear their calls? Keep reading for tips on how to react and when you should actually get concerned.
You might even end up appreciating their wild sounds. If you want more details, check out this helpful guide on coyote behavior.
What It Means When You Hear Coyotes Nearby
Hearing coyotes can catch you off guard, but usually they’re just talking to each other or marking their space. They use different sounds for different reasons, depending on the time and place.
Understanding Coyote Howls and Vocalizations
Coyotes make all sorts of sounds—howls, yips, barks, and growls. Howling is the most common and helps them talk to other coyotes or claim territory.
High-pitched yips often mean excitement or play. Barking doesn’t happen much, but when it does, it’s usually because a coyote is guarding a den or some food.
Growling shows aggression or dominance within the group.
Most of these sounds are totally normal and don’t mean you or your pets are in danger. Coyotes just use their voices to stay in touch with their pack or let others know where they are.
How To Tell If Coyotes Are Close
If you hear sharp, repeated yips or howls that change pitch fast, a coyote is probably nearby. But here’s the funny thing—people almost always think there are more coyotes than there really are.
Researchers say listeners usually double the number because coyote calls carry so far and sound so different.
Coyotes in cities usually travel in small groups, maybe five or six adults plus pups. If those sounds come from your yard or nearby, it just means they’re around—not that they’re a threat, as long as they act normal.
Why Coyotes Are Active in Your Area
Coyotes get more active at night or early morning to avoid people. In the fall, you might hear them more as they look for food or mates.
If you live near woods, parks, or open spaces, you’ll probably hear them more often. Coyotes adapt well to cities but still keep their distance unless they lose their fear of people.
Don’t feed them, and keep trash and pet food locked up to help keep coyotes wary. Knowing their habits can help you feel safer and maybe respect their place in the wild a bit more.
Want to dive deeper? Check out Should I be concerned if I hear coyotes howling, yipping or barking?
How to Respond and Stay Safe if You Hear Coyotes
Coyotes nearby can make anyone uneasy, but knowing what to do helps you and your pets stay safe. Taking steps to discourage coyotes from hanging around your home really does make a difference.
Safety Tips for Humans and Pets
If you hear coyotes, stay calm and pay attention. Don’t run if you see one.
Try to look bigger by standing tall, waving your arms, and making loud noises—shout, clap, whatever works. Most coyotes will take off if you do this.
Keep pets close and leashed, especially at dawn, dusk, or night. Don’t let them wander outside alone.
Bring in pet food and water bowls so you’re not attracting coyotes. If a coyote acts aggressive or comes too close, scare it off by tossing small things or using noise makers.
Coyotes usually avoid fights but might attack if cornered or sick.
Preventing Coyote Encounters Near Your Home
Lock up your garbage with tight lids and clean up fallen fruit or birdseed that could draw coyotes in. Motion-activated lights around your yard can spook them and keep them away.
Trim bushes and shrubs so coyotes can’t hide or rest there. That way, your yard won’t look so inviting.
Put up fences with materials coyotes can’t climb or dig under. Don’t feed wildlife—feeding coyotes just makes them lose their fear of people and causes more problems.
Check your property often for anything that could attract wildlife and clear it out quickly.
When to Contact Animal Control or Take Further Action
If you spot a coyote acting bold or aggressive—like sticking around even when you try to scare it off, or showing up during the day near kids—reach out to your local animal control or wildlife authorities right away.
These behaviors can mean the animal’s lost its natural fear, or maybe it’s sick.
When a coyote keeps coming back to your property, even after you’ve tried to scare it off, it’s probably time to call in the pros. They know how to handle these situations safely.
If you see anyone feeding coyotes, report it. Feeding them just encourages risky behavior.
Animal control teams can give you advice, trap and relocate aggressive coyotes, or take other steps to keep your neighborhood safe.
Don’t wait to call if you think a coyote is a real threat.
