So, a coyote’s coming your way—what now? Try to stay calm and stand your ground.
Raise your arms to look bigger, make loud noises, and definitely don’t run. Running just flips a switch in their brain, and suddenly you’re prey. Show confidence, make yourself a little scary, and let the coyote know it picked the wrong person.
Coyotes mostly keep their distance from people, but sometimes curiosity or a protective streak kicks in—especially if you’ve got pets with you. Keep your pet close, always on a leash.
If you know what to do, you’ll feel a lot more secure if you ever meet a coyote face to face.
These steps can help you and your pets stay safe outdoors. Want more details on what to do and how to avoid coyotes in the first place? Let’s dive in.
Immediate Steps When a Coyote Approaches
When a coyote starts getting close, how you react matters a lot. Stay calm and make it clear you’re not prey.
You want to look confident and warn the coyote off, but don’t escalate things.
Stay Calm and Avoid Running
First off, don’t panic. Coyotes can pick up on fear, and if you run, you might just trigger their hunting instinct.
Take a deep breath and keep your body steady. Quick, jerky movements can confuse both you and the animal.
Stay facing the coyote. Turning your back or trying to bolt just encourages it to chase.
Make Yourself Look Bigger
Looking bigger helps you seem more like a threat. Stand tall, raise your arms overhead, and if you’re wearing a jacket, open it wide.
If you’ve got a backpack or something handy, hold it out to add to your size. You can wave your arms a bit too.
Coyotes usually steer clear of anything that looks risky or unpredictable.
Use Loud Noises and Assertive Gestures
Don’t be shy about making a scene. Shout things like “Go away!” or “Leave!” in a firm, loud voice.
Clap your hands, stomp your feet, or use a whistle or air horn if you have one. Even banging a stick on the ground helps.
You can toss small sticks or stones near (not at) the coyote just to drive the point home. The goal is to be loud and clear: you’re not an easy target.
Back Away Slowly While Maintaining Eye Contact
If the coyote still doesn’t leave, start backing away—slowly. Keep your eyes on it and don’t turn your back.
Moving steady and slow tells the coyote you’re aware and not afraid. Never bend down to pick up pets or kids; that makes you look vulnerable.
Just keep backing away until you’re out of its space.
Protecting Pets and Preventing Future Encounters
Keeping pets safe and making your place less interesting to coyotes takes a bit of effort. But honestly, it’s not that complicated.
A few changes can really lower your chances of running into a coyote.
Keep Pets Close and Under Control
Always walk your pets on a leash, especially in neighborhoods where coyotes live. Small dogs and cats look like prey to them, so stay alert.
Keep your dog close and don’t let it chase after wildlife. If you spot a coyote, call your pet to your side and leave calmly.
Bring pets inside at night since that’s when coyotes are most active. A sturdy leash and collar make it easier to react fast if a coyote comes near.
Never leave pets outside alone, even in your own yard.
Never Feed Coyotes or Wild Animals
Feeding coyotes is just asking for trouble. It teaches them that people mean food, and that can make them bold.
Never leave food out for coyotes, and keep pet food inside. Even birdseed or scraps can attract them.
If coyotes find food near homes, they’ll keep coming back. Tell your family and neighbors—feeding wildlife might feel nice, but it’s risky for everyone.
Remove Outdoor Food Sources and Secure Garbage
Coyotes go where the food is easy. Make your yard less appealing by getting rid of anything they might eat.
Lock up garbage in bins with tight lids. Pick up fallen fruit and don’t leave pet food or birdseed outside overnight.
Protect your garden and compost piles, too. If you hide the food, coyotes will probably look elsewhere.
Contact Animal Control for Aggressive Behavior
Spot a coyote acting aggressive near your home or pets? Go ahead and call local animal control right away.
These folks know how to deal with wildlife safely, and they’ll check things out.
If you notice any attacks, frequent sightings, or coyotes that just won’t run off when you try to scare them, make sure you report it.
Taking action early can help keep you, your neighbors, and your pets safe.
Animal control sometimes uses hazing or other tricks to make coyotes steer clear of people.
Letting them know about troublemakers in your area really does help protect your community.
Curious about what else you can do? Check out what to do if a coyote approaches you.
