Beginning in April, it’s coyote pup season which could last through early summer! 

Coyote mating season is January through March resulting in pup season beginning in April and lasting through the beginning of June. Newborn pups are born deaf and blind and need constant attention by their pack.  Pack duties include babysitting, hunting and defending their den and territory.

To care for their young, coyotes move around throughout the day in search of food, particularly during pup season when there are more mouths to feed.   It is a common misconception that coyotes seen during the day are either sick or rabid; coyotes are not nocturnal.

Coyotes are opportunistic predators. Their diet is mostly small mammals but they will eat whatever is available. They may interpret a small, unattended pet as prey or attack large dogs they view as threats to its territory or den. Leaving your pets alone outside is not advised especially during pupping season.

Prevent your property from becoming a common hunting ground for coyotes. 

• Do not intentionally feed coyotes
• Be conscientious of unintentional food sources that might lure them into your yard
  • Bird feeders attract small mammals such as mice and squirrels
  • Pet food left outside
• Seasonal berries or fruit are part of a coyote’s diet
• Food in unsecured trash
• Food left out for other types of wildlife

Some interesting facts about coyotes:

• They howl and yip to communicate with each other and establish territory.
• They may bark when defending a den or downed prey.
• They “escort” you away from its den by hunching its back, walking towards you, or by barking or huffing.

How should we respond if encountering a coyote?

Coyotes are naturally timid animals and will usually leave at the sight of a human. If they linger or start to approach, try to scare them away (referred to as “hazing”).

• Do not run; back away facing the coyote.
• Be big, loud and bold:
  • Make noise; shout or use a whistle or horn
  • Wave your arms
• Throw something at its feet or body; not its head
• Hold your jacket wide open

Hazing should never be attempted if the coyote is with its pups or appears to be injured. If it’s the latter, report it to BHPD at 847-428-8784. Hazing may not work until all food attractants are permanently removed.

We must coexist

Coyotes are valuable members of the wildlife community. They help keep populations of small mammals and rabbits under control. As Illinois’ largest remaining predator, they are an integral part of a functioning healthy ecosystem.

Adopting positive attitudes of tolerance toward wildlife and modifying our own behavior is essential to peaceful coexistence. We must take the time to educate ourselves.

Sources of Information:

• urbancoyoteresearch.com
• fpdcc.com
• dnr.illinois.gov/
• reconnectwithnature.org
• coyotesmarts.org
• nywolf.org