Coyote attacks peak during height of mating season

OSWEGO, N.Y. — February means the peak of coyote attacks in Upstate New York, as the animals grow more territorial during the height of their mating season.

“Coyotes are typically very shy, elusive creatures,” said Amanda Dahms, a Wildlife Communication, Outreach and Education Specialist with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

“This time of year, there just happens to be that particularly higher likelihood that something could occur, because the coyotes are on edge,” she said.

From January to March, coyotes are more likely to attack anything they see as a potential threat, as males seek to protect their mates and females seek to protect their young.

According to Dahms, they often attack dogs specifically. Her advice for keeping your pets safe is simple.

“It really is a good idea to have your pets indoors and under supervision,” she said.

She offers similar guidance for protecting livestock, noting that many farmers use tall, electrified fences, and guard animals such as donkeys and large dogs.

And if you encounter a coyote yourself?

“If you see it from a distance, the best thing you can do is avoid,” Dahms said. “Stand your ground, make yourself look large.”

She specifically recommends against running, as coyotes will see that as prey-like behavior. Instead, you can wave your arms around, or even throw sticks and stones at the animal.

That is a last resort, however.

“Coyotes are just out there trying to live their lives and raise their families,” Dahms said. “The best thing we can do is observe them from a respectful distance and appreciate the beautiful animals that they are.”

If you are attacked by a coyote or observe unusual behavior, call 911 or your local Department of Environmental Conservation office right away.