So, you’re out for a walk or hike and suddenly a coyote starts following you. It’s hard not to panic, but honestly, staying calm is the best thing you can do. Don’t run—stand your ground, try to look bigger, shout as loud as you can, and slowly back away while keeping eye contact. Coyotes usually get the message that you’re not an easy target when you act this way.
Coyotes tend to be shy and would rather not mess with people. If you know how to react, you can protect yourself and keep things from escalating.
Confidence and a little noise or movement can usually scare a coyote off. It’s kind of surprising how simple actions can make such a huge difference if a coyote gets too close.
Let’s dig into what you should actually do if you ever find yourself in this situation.
How to Respond When a Coyote Chases You
Stay calm and act like you mean it. The way you respond can totally change how things play out.
Use your body and your voice to show the coyote you’re not prey. You want it to leave you alone.
Avoid Running and Stay Calm
Don’t run from a coyote. Running just flips a switch in their brain and makes them want to chase you.
Instead, take a breath and keep your feet planted. Face the coyote head-on.
If you turn your back or try to sprint, you’ll make the coyote more likely to chase. Staying calm lets the animal know you’re aware and you’re not panicking.
Make Yourself Look Larger
Try to look bigger than you actually are. Raise your arms up high and wave them—slowly is fine.
If you’ve got a jacket or backpack, open it or lift it up to make yourself look larger.
Coyotes don’t want to mess with something that seems tough. Standing tall sends the message that you’re not an easy target.
Use Loud Noises and Deterrents
Shout at the coyote—something like “Go away!” or “Back off!” works. Be loud and clear.
If you have sticks, a whistle, or anything else that makes noise, use it. Bang sticks together or snap branches.
Noise can startle coyotes and remind them that people aren’t to be messed with. It’s a good way to set boundaries.
Throw Objects Without Turning Away
If the coyote keeps coming, toss small things like sticks or stones near it—but not right at it. You don’t want to provoke it.
Keep facing the animal as you throw. Don’t turn your back.
Back away slowly while you do this. The coyote usually takes the hint and leaves when you hold your ground.
Want more info? Experts have some great tips on what to do if a coyote chases you.
Protecting Yourself, Pets, and Next Steps After an Encounter
Knowing what to do after a coyote encounter can help you and others stay safe. You’ll want to spot dangerous behavior, keep kids and pets close, and report anything weird to the right people.
Recognize Signs of Aggression or Rabid Coyotes
Most coyotes avoid people, but sometimes you’ll see signs that something’s off. Look for snarling, raised fur, or growling.
If a coyote doesn’t back off when you make noise, it could be sick or rabid. Rabid coyotes act odd—they might seem confused, walk funny, or not care about people at all.
If a coyote seems aggressive or just way too bold, stay away from it. Don’t feed it or try to get closer.
Aggressive behavior can lead to attacks. Just stay calm, stand tall, and back away slowly.
If you think a coyote might have rabies, report it right away. Only professionals should deal with rabid animals.
Keep Children and Pets Safe
Keep children close and calm if you see a coyote. Make sure kids know not to run or scream.
Running can make the coyote want to chase. Have kids stand tall and stick with adults.
Always use a short leash for pets when you’re outside, especially for small dogs and cats. Coyotes see small pets as food, unfortunately.
Don’t let pets roam alone or chase wildlife. At dusk or dawn, bring pets inside—coyotes are more active then.
Use bright lights or noise makers around your yard if you want extra protection.
Report Incidents to Local Animal Control
If you spot a coyote acting strange or aggressive, call your local animal control right away. Reporting helps keep your neighborhood safe.
Give them details like where you saw it, what time, what the coyote did, and if any pets were involved.
Animal control can track coyotes or set up warnings if needed. If there’s an attack or a close call, definitely report that too.
Wildlife officers might need to step in to protect people and pets.
Understand Patterns in Coyote Sightings
Coyotes tend to follow certain routines. You’ll usually spot them at night, but if food gets scarce, they might wander out during the day.
Keep an eye out for patterns—maybe they show up near parks, alleyways, or around trash bins at regular times. It’s surprising how often the same spots attract them.
If your neighborhood borders open spaces or forests, you’ll probably notice more coyotes around. They steer clear of busy areas most of the time, but easy food or shelter can lure them closer.
Try keeping your trash secure and always feed pets indoors. That alone can cut down on unwanted visits.
When you pick up on these patterns, you can do a better job of keeping your pets safe. It’s really about staying a step ahead.
If you stay alert to coyote activity nearby, you can act early and avoid bigger problems.
For more on staying safe from coyotes, check out What To Do When A Coyote Approaches You – Vet Explains Pets.
