Somehow, Sneaking Up on a Sleeping Coyote Seemed Like a Good Idea

Sneaking up on a sleeping coyote and scaring it to wake up can be hilarious, yet dangerous. Coyotes are still wild animals, and the thing with wild animals is that you never really know how they will react.  

But it is never a good idea to sneak up on a wild animal, however harmless it may look.

Coyotes are opportunistic hunters and scavengers who migrate while seeking areas abundant in food. They can establish their dens and territories anywhere, including farms and cities. The determinant factor is the abundance of meaty foods.  

Like many other animals, once they establish a territory, coyotes will defend it.

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Can A Coyote Attack Humans?

Coyote attacks on humans are rare, but they have been known to attack in response to human behavior.

Coyotes avoid conflicts with humans, but the animal could attack when aggravated. Embracing mutual respect is critical in preventing these attacks. Stay away from the coyote’s path, and it will do the same. 

Do not initiate conflicts where none exist.

A coyote that consistently frequents human neighborhoods loses its natural fear of people. A coyote already comfortable in your neighborhood may challenge you or even stalk your pets.

If you ever encounter a coyote that barks, snarls, and lunges at you like an aggressive dog, contact the authorities, preferably animal control. 

The last thing you want to do when encountering an aggressive coyote is run. Remember, coyotes are opportunistic; if you run, you demonstrate fear, which is an opportunity for them to attack you. 

Coyotes will act aggressively during pupping season. If you encounter such a coyote, change your route to show it you mean no harm. If it is aggressive without pups, you may want to call the authorities because that is unusual behavior. 

If the animal approaches you, wave your arms, yell and throw something at it to scare it. 

How to Bring Coyotes Under Control in Your Neighborhood

If you regularly spot coyotes near your home, it is probably because your neighborhood provides them easy access to food. 

Some methods you could use to discourage coyotes from your neighborhood include keeping your garbage inside your garage or covered if outside and clearing your compound from fallen fruit, pet food, and other food sources. 

You could also invest in a fence. Your fence should have buried wire aprons to prevent the coyotes from digging and accessing your compound. Finally, avoid keeping your pets outside for extended periods as they might attract coyotes to your home.

Spotting a coyote once in a while in your neighborhood is no cause for alarm. However, do your best to prevent coyotes from getting too comfortable around you. That way, you bring the number of coyotes in your neighborhood under control, minimizing the chances of coyote attacks.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Mircea Costina/Shutterstock.com