HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – Due to the arrival of winter breeding season, coyote sightings will increase throughout Christian County until February.
Coyotes can be commonly found in all 120 Kentucky counties, and during this season they may be less tolerant of dogs and more territorial, according to the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife. When coyotes come too close, appear aggressive, or have lost their fear of humans, it is often because they have found a food source.
“One hypothesis for more sightings in urban areas is the lack of predators and the abundance of food,” said Christian County Agriculture Agent, Matt Futrell. “In urban areas they basically have no predators to keep the population in check. There is also an abundance of food. They aren’t above scavenging refuse or taking the neighborhood cat as easy prey. In many situations urban development has expanded into their habitat and we as people are having to learn to coexist with them.”
Safety tips
Here are important reminders from the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife.
- Bird feeders, outdoor petfood, compost piles, grills, and outdoor garbage containers can all attract coyotes.
- Do not feed coyotes.
- Do not leave pet food outside that will attract coyotes.
- Make sure garbage containers are secured.
- Be aware that bird feeders may attract squirrels and mice, which in turn, may attract coyotes.
- Keep pets on a leash or fence in your yard.
- Use negative reinforcement to scare coyotes away; shout, wave arms, and throw objects. Do not run from a coyote.
- Share with your neighbors the recommendations above.