Effective Methods To Deter Coyotes From Your Yard

Over the past few decades, human-coyote interactions have risen dramatically. This is partially due to the expansion of cities and suburbs, which has infringed on the traditional living spaces of coyotes. However, in many areas, the coyote population has been rising just as steadily as the human population and these wild canines have expanded their range to accommodate their increasing numbers. This combination of factors has led to more instances of coyotes invading backyards and sent many homeowners on a mission to find effective methods to deter coyotes.

To a great degree, methods to deter coyotes from your yard aren't much different than those used to protect your campsite from coyotes. They are also pretty much the same measures you should take to keep bears away from your home. So, if you live in bear territory and have already taken steps to bear-proof your property, odds are you've done what is necessary to deter coyotes in the process. However, if you live in a city or any other area where bears aren't a concern, you may need to create barriers, remove attractants, and set up deterrents to keep coyotes out of your yard.

These steps are necessary because coyotes can present a risk to people and pets in rural, urban, and suburban areas. While they may not appear as menacing as bears or wolves, coyotes nonetheless have been known to attack humans, dogs, and cats. Additionally, coyotes have been known to damage or destroy property. Thankfully, the vast majority of such incidents and attacks can be prevented by implementing a handful of precautions.

Like all wild animals, coyotes are preoccupied with meeting their basic needs — food, water, and shelter. The most effective measures of keeping coyotes away involve making sure they aren't able to meet these needs in your yard. In order to make sure they aren't able to find a home in your yard, put up barriers like mesh wire or lattice to close off any openings under decks, homes, or outbuildings. Make sure all doors and windows of sheds, storage buildings, and garages are securely closed, especially at night. It is also a good idea to cut back any bushes or underbrush.

Removing food and water requires a multifaceted approach. If you have pets, do not feed them outside, as the food in their dishes can attract coyotes. Believe it or not, bird feeders can do the same, as coyotes are not only attracted to the bird seed, but also the birds that come to eat it. Bird baths are also major coyote attractants, as coyotes can use bird baths for their own source of water as well as an opportunity to feed on birds. You should also keep barbecue pits and grills clean, as food remnants can attract coyotes. 

Fences can be deterrents, but in order to be effective against coyotes, they need to be at least six feet tall and constructed from material that prevent coyotes from climbing it. Shorter fences can work if they are fitted with coyote rollers across the top. Securing trash can lids with Trash Lock straps can prevent coyotes from raiding your trash bin. Installing motion-activated lights like JJC LED security lights can both deter coyotes from entering your yard and alert you when they approach. You can also reduce pests in your yard with vinegar. This can deter coyotes from the unpleasant scent and also by repelling smaller rodents coyotes prey on.