It's time of year for increased sightings of coyotes in Kentucky

Increased sightings of coyotes may occur this winter and spring across Kentucky as coyotes roam to search for mates, establish territories and raise pups.

The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife reminds us that coyote winter mating season is typically from now into March, while pup rearing takes place in spring and early summer.​​​

​​​“People may worry when they think there are coyotes living near them, but there’s usually no cause for alarm if you see one,” said Laura Palmer, wildlife biologist. “Like other wildlife that live in and around neighborhoods and farms, and even in urban areas, coyotes are shy and will typically avoid humans.”

Most coyotes do not bother people, livestock or pets and most people do not even know coyotes are living near their homes. ​​​Coyotes have a varied diet consisting mostly of rodents, insects and fruit. They help maintain balance in the ecosystem by providing natural rodent and insect control, scavenging and removing carrion from the environment, seed dispersal and more.

Coyotes have been common in Kentucky for at least the past 50 years after spreading out across North America from the interior plains. Found in every state except Hawaii, and in every Kentucky county,

Coyotes are monogamous and form lasting pair bonds to raise their pups in established territories. 
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Palmer says if you see a coyote, ​​​“don’t be afraid and don’t panic. There are many unfortunate misconceptions about coyotes, but conflicts can be easily avoided by having a basic understating of these wild animals.”

Coyotes are opportunists and may take advantage of food around homes if an easy meal is available. A sick or injured coyote that is not able to forage on wild foods as efficiently, or young that have not learned to hunt effectively, may also sniff out food sources provided by humans.​​​

​​​“Do not feed coyotes – intentionally or unintentionally,” Palmer said. “Don’t leave your pet’s food outside and don’t feed feral cats, raccoons, possums, deer or other wildlife. Be mindful that bird feeders may attract mice and squirrels, which could attract coyotes. Compost piles may also attract coyotes.”

As with any wild animal, coyotes can lose their fear of people if conditioned to depend on us for food, which can lead to conflict. Secure garbage, and plug holes under fences, block access to crawl spaces, and fence around yards and gardens.​​​

Pet owners should turn on outside lights and check the yard for unwanted animals before letting pets outside. Pets should be kenneled or supervised when outside.​​​ ​​​When walking a dog, use a short, non-retractable leash that is highly visible and vary your walking routine. Do not let a dog chase or “play” with a coyote.

​​​“If someone sees a coyote when out for a stroll or while walking their dog, just know that coyotes are curious by nature,” Palmer said. “Sometimes they follow people or dogs just to see what they are doing, or they may be guarding their pups that may be in an unnoticed den nearby. Alter walking routes in the future to avoid suspected den sites.”

​​​Never feed or approach any wild animal to take pictures or video. Observe and enjoy wildlife from a distance.

​​​Den sites may be in hollow trees or logs, rock crevices, brush piles, abandoned groundhog burrows, or even abandoned buildings or junk piles.