Coyote sightings happen throughout all of Travis County, and their continued urbanization has caused an increase in interactions with humans. The city of Austin has released these tips should you encounter a coyote.
If You See a Coyote
To report coyote sightings, especially aggressive behavior toward people or pets, call 3-1-1. The information gathered through 3-1-1 will be relayed to Texas Wildlife Services for response/follow-up. Call 9-1-1 to report a coyote attack on a human.
Where Coyotes Are Found
Coyote sightings near greenbelts in Travis County are increasing as the adaptable animals discover that an urban environment provides many sources of food. Coyotes have adjusted to the human population expansion of Travis County, and have already dispersed into the developed urban landscape where they tend to thrive.
Loss of Fear
The most serious problem with the urbanization of coyotes is that they adapt to being around people. As they lose their fear, coyotes become bolder in approaching people and may put themselves in hazardous situations they would normally avoid.
Coyotes are active mainly during the nighttime, but they can be moving at any time during the day. Most sightings of coyotes occur during the hours close to sunrise and sunset.
The abundance of food regulates coyote numbers, reproduction, survival, dispersal and territories.
In the wild, coyotes generally have home ranges of 3 to 16 square miles. But in suburban areas, where resources are plentiful, coyotes may need only 1?4 to 1?2 square mile. This can lead to large coyote populations, increasing the chance of contact with humans.
Government Action
Travis County and Texas Wildlife Services, a Department of the Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Service, have partnered to address the coyote problem in Travis County.
The City of Austin participates in this partnership.
Under the agreement, Texas Wildlife Services will provide technical assistance and direct control. Technical assistance involves assisting the public by providing advice, recommendations, information, educational material, and educational programs.
Direct control will involve removal of coyotes that exhibit aggressive behavior toward people or pets, and pose a risk to human health and safety.
Do’s and Don’ts for Residents
| 1.Do not feed coyotes or other wildlife. | 6.Feed pets indoors whenever possible. Pick up any leftovers if feeding outdoors. Store pet food where it is inaccessible to wildlife. |
| 2.Eliminate sources of water. | 7.Trim and clean, near ground level, any shrubbery that provides hiding cover for coyotes or prey. |
| 3.Position bird feeders so that coyotes can’t get the feed. | 8.Don’t leave children unattended. |
| 4.Do not discard edible garbage where coyotes can get to it. | 9.Don’t allow pets to run free. Keep them safely confined and provide secure nighttime housing for them. Walk your dog on a leash and accompany your pet outside, especially at night. |
| 5.Secure garbage containers and eliminate garbage odors. | 10.Discourage coyotes from frequenting your area. If you start seeing coyotes around your home or property, chase them away by shouting, making loud noises or throwing rocks. |
Get More Information
- Download Urban Coyote informational brochure, here.
- USDA Pamphlet – Coyotes in Towns and Suburbs: http://go.usa.gov/Dzyj
- Texas Agrilife Extension’s Coyote Resources: http://goo.gl/SaAVeQ
- Request an educational program for your community: (512) 854-2994.