In recent years, coyote sightings in both rural and urban areas of Southern Wisconsin have become increasingly common. As human development expands into natural habitats, encounters with wildlife like coyotes are bound to happen. This has raised important questions for homeowners and pet owners alike: Are coyotes dangerous? Should we be concerned for our pets, or even ourselves?
The short answer is: coyotes can pose a threat under certain circumstances, especially to unattended pets. However, understanding their behavior and taking preventive steps can greatly reduce the risks.
Coyote Behavior in Wisconsin
Coyotes are highly adaptable animals. They're found in every county in Wisconsin and are especially active at dawn and dusk. While they naturally avoid people, they’re opportunistic feeders and may be drawn to neighborhoods in search of food. Small pets like cats and dogs can be mistaken for prey, especially if left outdoors unsupervised.
In rare cases, coyotes have approached humans, often due to being fed or losing their natural fear of people. These situations are uncommon, but they do occur, especially in areas where coyotes are regularly exposed to humans without consequences.
Pets Are Most at Risk
Coyotes don’t typically view adult humans as prey, but small pets are another story. Cats that roam outside and small dogs in unfenced yards or on retractable leashes are at the highest risk. Coyotes are agile and can jump fences up to six feet tall, especially if food or prey is on the other side.
If you’re walking your dog, especially during dawn or dusk, it’s best to use a short leash and remain alert. If you see a coyote, make yourself appear larger, make loud noises, and slowly back away—never run.
What Attracts Coyotes?
Coyotes are opportunistic, which means they're attracted to anything that smells like food. This includes:
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Pet food left outdoors
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Unsecured garbage bins
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Compost with food scraps
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Birdseed, which attracts smaller animals that coyotes hunt
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Fallen fruit from trees
Eliminating these attractants is one of the most effective ways to reduce coyote activity near your home.
Coyotes and Disease: What You Should Know
While physical attacks are rare, coyotes can carry diseases that pose risks to pets and, in some cases, humans. These include:
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Rabies: Although not common in Wisconsin coyotes, rabies is a serious concern as it can be fatal and transmitted through bites or saliva.
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Canine distemper: This virus affects dogs and wild canines. Infected coyotes can spread it through bodily fluids.
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Mange: Caused by mites, mange leads to hair loss and skin infections. It’s contagious to pets through direct contact.
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Parvovirus: This is a dangerous and highly contagious virus among dogs. Coyotes can carry and spread it through feces.
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Leptospirosis: A bacterial infection spread through urine-contaminated water or soil, which can affect both pets and humans.
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Tapeworms and roundworms: Coyotes can carry parasites that spread through feces and may infect pets if they come in contact with contaminated areas.
Keeping your pets vaccinated and avoiding exposure to wild animal waste are key to minimizing disease risks.
How to Deter Coyotes Humanely
At Critter Control of Southern Wisconsin, we prioritize humane wildlife control. If coyotes are frequently spotted near your property, here are a few steps we recommend:
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Remove food sources and secure trash
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Install motion-activated lights or sprinklers
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Use fencing that is at least six feet tall with a coyote roller or angled top
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Never feed coyotes, intentionally or unintentionally
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Supervise small pets outdoors
If you're dealing with a persistent coyote presence, we can help assess your property and implement humane deterrents or exclusion techniques to keep your family and pets safe.
When to Call a Professional
If a coyote has become bold, aggressive, or is seen frequently during the daytime near your home, it may be time to call in professionals. Our team at Critter Control of Southern Wisconsin is trained to handle these situations humanely and effectively, ensuring the safety of both the animal and your community.
Stay Safe, Stay Informed
Coyotes are a natural part of Wisconsin’s ecosystem and play an important role in controlling rodent populations. However, when they get too close for comfort, it’s important to take proactive steps to protect your home and pets. By understanding coyote behavior, minimizing attractants, and recognizing the risks they pose, you can greatly reduce the likelihood of a negative encounter.
If you have questions or concerns about coyotes on your property, contact Critter Control of Southern Wisconsin. We’re here to help you find safe, humane solutions for living alongside wildlife.