Coyotes

About the Coyote

Late January through early March is the mating season for coyotes and they become more active during this time. Be proactive to prevent conflicts with coyotes with these actionable tips:

Protect pets

Dogs should always be supervised and on a leash. During the breeding season, coyotes become very active marking and defending their territories to protect their pack from other coyotes.

Remove food sources

Coyotes will utilize whatever food is available, including small animals, insects, and fruits, as well as artificial sources such as garbage, pet food, and compost.

Hazing

If you see a coyote in your yard, you should aggressively “haze” it by chasing it out of the yard, making loud noises, and throwing small objects, if needed, ensuring not to harm the coyote. Repeated hazing helps teach coyotes they are not welcome there.

Don’t be intimidated

It’s important to note that negative encounters with coyotes are rare, and attacks on people are even more rare. Do not be fearful of them.

Seek help if appropriate

Coyotes can be active at any time of day; however, if you encounter a coyote with concerning behavior like approaching leashed pets, closely following people, or not running off when hazed, contact NM Game & Fish for assistance.During the coyote's mating season, they become more active and visible in the community.

What does “hazing” mean?

Hazing does not harm the coyote. It is a method that makes use of deterrents to move an animal out of an area or discourage an undesirable behavior or activity. Hazing can help maintain a coyote’s fear of humans and deter them from backyards and play spaces.

The simplest method of hazing a coyote involves being loud and large:

Stand tall, wave your arms, and yell at the coyote, approaching them if necessary, until they run away, as demonstrated in this Humane Society video: https://youtu.be/EDm9wjfcdbw?si=gw1uFDWXFEmFqmJk

The coyote may not immediately run away when you yell at them. If this happens, you may need to walk towards the coyote and increase the intensity of your hazing.

The coyote may run away, but then stop after a distance and look at you. It is important to continue until it completely leaves the area. You may need to use different tactics, such as noisemakers, stomping your feet, or spraying the coyote with a hose, to get them to leave.

For more tips, tricks and information about hazing coyotes, visit the Humane Society website: https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/coyote-hazing

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