by Kelsey Warren-Bryant
I used to live in a house that belonged to my parents, a two-story home in the middle of Oklahoma woods. Trees surrounded every
side of the home, and with them, wildlife. I had my fair share of experience with wild animals while living there — deer grazing the backyard, turkeys crossing the road, families of bunnies hopping around the front fence. I’m even pretty sure I heard a bobcat once.
One afternoon I hopped into my blue Chevy, ready for a long commute to class in Norman. I started my way down the driveway, then slammed my foot on the brake as I caught sight of something standing across the road. In an empty patch between trees, I could see the canine clearly. It was midsized and lanky with narrow brown eyes. Its fur was a fluffy swirl of gray, tan, and red. Its eyes were on me as if it could see me staring at it from inside the car. Although I was a safe distance away, I dared not move, afraid even the smallest disturbance might scare it off. In all my years growing up in the country, I had never seen a coyote before. I wanted a good look.
The coyote gave me one last, long stare, as if sizing up my intentions. After a few moments, its shoulders relaxed. It slinked off, its furry spotted coat disappearing into the expanse of trees.
Of course, I was in no immediate danger that day. However, for some people, the appearance of a coyote can be disconcerting. Here are some answers to questions you might have about coyotes.
What Is a Coyote?
Coyotes are midsized canines, known for their characteristic yips and howls. Coyotes can live as bachelors, in mated pairs, or in family groups. They use their unique voices to communicate with their pack. For example, a bark alerts the pack of nearby danger. A howl lets the other pack members know the coyote’s location, and a yip is a welcome to new members of the pack.
In Oklahoma, coyotes are usually apex predators, meaning they have no competition from bigger predators. Although their diet consists mostly of rodents, fruit, and vegetable matter, they are opportunistic and will attack larger prey such as young calves or small household pets if given the chance.
What Is the History of Coyotes?
Coyotes have resided on the North American continent for approximately five million years. Unlike their wolf cousins, who crossed into America from Asia, coyotes originated here. Despite their resemblance to wolves, they are more closely related to jackals, with only a 4 percent genetic variation.
When Lewis and Clark encountered their first coyote on their explorations of the West, they didn’t know what to make of it. After determining that it was not a fox, they decided to call it a “prairie wolf.” That name was used all the way until the mid-1800s, when the term coyote became more popularized. The species is called Canis latrans.
Since the discovery of coyotes, governments have attempted several extermination efforts against the species to appease frustrated farmers and ranchers. The biggest of those efforts occurred in the 1950s. The federal government authorized the use of different poisons, killing more than six million coyotes. However, despite those attempts, coyotes have always bounced back. They are cunning and resourceful. Their unique ability to adapt to changing environments has not only kept the species alive but has allowed coyotes to thrive in a way that very few predatory species do.
What Do I Do if I See a Coyote?
Simply seeing a coyote usually isn’t cause for concern. Coyotes fear humans and are rarely a threat to people. However, for pets without a secured fence, the presence of a coyote can be a reason for caution. A small dog or cat could easily be a target if the coyote deems it easy prey.
If a coyote approaches you boldly or is after your pet or livestock, scare tactics can be an effective way to deter it. Wave your arms wildly to make yourself appear big. Scream or throw a rock in its direction. Most coyotes will run if they feel they are in danger.
However, if you are having persistent issues with coyotes in your area, the Oklahoma Wildlife Department encourages citizens to call them with any concerns at (405) 521-4039. Often, a single coyote might be causing the trouble, and it might be possible to relocate the animal.
When Would I Be Most Likely To See a Coyote?
Coyotes are most active during their breeding months and after their litters are born. Their breeding season lasts from January to March, and they usually give birth to litters in April and May. Coyotes may be more aggressive during those months, so if you see one, it’s best to not approach.
What Can I Do To Prevent Coyotes from Attacking My Pets?
Although coyotes rarely pose a threat to humans, pets can sometimes be a target. Pet owners in areas with a high population of coyotes should exercise caution by taking preventive measures. They can consider installing a six-foot privacy fence to keep pets safe. A coyote can jump anything shorter than that.
Another way to help keep pets safe is to keep them indoors at night. Coyotes are nocturnal, so keeping pets in the house after the sun goes down helps to limit the risk of their running into a hungry coyote.
If coyotes in the area seem bold or overtly aggressive, you can use devices specifically made to prevent predator attacks. One of those is an animal repeller light. A blinking light is set up on a stake and automatically emits flashes of light at night. That might resemble predator eyes or fire to a wild animal. Many repeller lights are solar powered. Repeller lights can be used to ward off other unwanted guests such as squirrels, raccoons, rodents, etc.
Another item you can use to deter an attack is a spiked pet collar. Coyotes bite their prey at the neck, so a spiked collar is a simple way to keep a pet safe from a coyote bite.
Once you have taken those safety measure, relax! Those wily canines normally keep to themselves.
Can I Have a Coyote as a Pet?
Unfortunately, no. Coyotes are not considered legal wildlife to own in Oklahoma.
All in all, coyotes are a controversial species. They incite wonder in some people and fear in others. If a coyote does happen to be out and about, don’t approach, but be sure to get the camera ready — those canines are quick!
For more information, see the following websites:
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/coyote-america-dan-floreshistory-science#:~:text=Coyote%20is%20an%20old%20Aztec,who%20called%20 the%20animal%20coyote.
http://wildlifedepartment.com/wildlife/field-guide/mammals/coyote https://www.petmd.com/dog/care/how-protect-your-pet-coyotes https://www.amazon.com/s?k=animal+repeller&crid=267TU1SXTZSA1&sprefix= animal+repeller%2Caps%2C127&ref=nb_sb_noss_1
