Spotting a coyote can make your heart race. Your gut might say, “Run!” but honestly, that’s about the worst move you could make.
If you run, you’ll probably trigger the coyote’s chase instinct, and that just makes things riskier. Instead, try to stay calm and stand your ground. It’s a much safer bet.
Coyotes usually keep their distance from people, but they might get bolder if they start feeling too comfortable around us.
If you know how to react, you’ll keep yourself, your pets, and even the coyotes safer. Let’s look at what you can actually do if you run into one.
Should You Run When You See Coyotes?
If you see a coyote, staying calm and thinking things through goes a long way.
Running just makes things worse, but you’ve got better options. Knowing a bit about how coyotes act helps you make the right call.
Why Running Is Not Recommended
Trying to outrun a coyote? Not gonna happen—they’re faster than you.
Sudden moves can make you look like prey, or maybe even a threat. That’s when the coyote might chase or act tough.
Instead of bolting, stand tall or back away slowly. Running could also spook other coyotes nearby or draw more attention to yourself.
Keeping your cool is your best shot at avoiding a bad situation.
Safe Ways to Respond to a Coyote Encounter
If a coyote comes closer, make yourself look big. Raise your arms, wave them around, or even flap your jacket.
Yell, clap, or make loud noises—don’t be shy about it. Toss small things near (not at) the coyote to show you mean business.
These tricks let the coyote know you’re not easy pickings.
Back away slowly, always facing the coyote. Don’t turn your back or try to sprint away.
Keep your pets close, or pick up the little ones if you can. If the coyote won’t leave, keep being loud and move away until you’re safe.
People call this “hazing,” and it helps teach coyotes to keep their distance from humans.
Recognizing Coyote Behavior and Warning Signs
Usually, coyotes want nothing to do with us. But if one hangs around or doesn’t run, that’s a red flag.
Coyotes that get food from people can lose their natural fear. During pup season (February to June), they get extra protective and might act more aggressive near their dens.
Watch for a coyote staring you down, walking toward you confidently, or growling.
If you spot any of these, start hazing right away. If the coyote just keeps coming back, let animal control know.
That way, you help protect your neighbors, too.
For more tips on dealing with bold coyotes, check out what to do if you see a coyote.
How to Prevent Coyote Encounters and Stay Safe
You can actually do a lot to lower your chances of running into coyotes. A little caution and planning goes a long way.
Tips for Avoiding Coyotes While Outdoors
Stay alert outside, especially near woods or brushy areas where coyotes might hang out.
Try not to walk alone at dawn, dusk, or night—those are prime coyote hours. Stick to well-lit, busy paths if you can.
If you see a coyote, don’t run. Stay calm, face the animal, and back away slowly.
Running just makes them want to chase.
Keep your yard tidy. Pick up food scraps and lock up your trash.
Don’t feed coyotes or leave pet food sitting out. That just invites them to stick around.
Protecting Pets and Children
Always use a short leash for your pets when you’re outside.
Small dogs and cats look like snacks to coyotes. Don’t leave pets alone outside, especially at night or during coyote breeding season (January to March).
Teach your kids to stay close and never run from a coyote.
Show them how to wave their arms, yell, or make noise to scare one off.
If you’ve got a yard, a six-foot fence helps. You can even add a coyote roller—a spinning bar on top—to keep them from climbing over.
Effective Deterrents and Hazing Techniques
You can make loud noises to scare coyotes away. Try shouting, clapping, or grabbing a noise maker—maybe a whistle or even a can with a few rocks inside.
Wave your arms so you look bigger. That simple move can make a coyote think twice.
If you need to, toss small objects near the coyote. Don’t throw things at it, just close enough to send a message. This lets the animal know you’re not easy prey, and it’ll probably get more cautious around people.
Coyotes hanging around too much? It’s probably time to call your local wildlife officials. They’ll have advice or can help with safe deterrents and hazing options.
Want more info on handling coyotes? Check out Why Should You Not Run Away From a Coyote? Safe Responses Explained.
