It’s Coyote Mating Season in Massachusetts – How to Protect Your Pets
It’s coyote mating season in Massachusetts. Here’s how to keep your pets safe.
Did you know there are about about 12,000 wily coyotes in Massachusetts?
And if they coyotes have their way, there are about to be more. It’s coyote mating mating season in Massachusetts, which means you have to beware.
According to patch.com, a coyote accosted a Stoneham woman in her driveway in October. Coyotes attacked dogs in two separate incidents in Hopkinton and Milford . Brighton residents reported a pair of coyotes “milling around” in a backyard in November. “There have been coyote sightings in Peabody and warnings in North Andover. Don’t forget the sharpshooters Nahant hired.”
Believe it or not, these crafty canines weren’t always hanging out in the Bay State. They actually migrated here from the Great Plains in the early 20th century, and boy, have they made themselves at home. Especially during their mating season, which typically runs from January to March.
During this time, coyotes are more active and can be more aggressive as they establish territories and search for mates. In fact, the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife reports hundreds of encounters with coyotes each year, with some resulting in attacks on pets. According to MassWildlife, the coyote mating season will last through March. Coyotes are “very active” both seeking mates and defending what they perceive as their territory.
So, what’s a pet parent to do? Here are some tips to keep your furry buddies safe:
- Keep pets indoors: Especially during dawn and dusk when coyotes are most active.
- Supervise outdoor time: If your pet needs to go outside, accompany them and keep them on a leash.
- Secure trash bins: Coyotes are attracted to easy meals, so make sure your garbage is tightly sealed.
- Fence it in: If possible, install a coyote-proof fence around your yard to keep both pets and coyotes safe.
- Make noise: If you spot a coyote, make yourself look big, yell, and clap to scare them away.
By following these tips, you can help protect your pets and ensure they stay safe and sound during coyote mating season. So, let’s show those coyotes that in Massachusetts, our pets are family, and we’ll do whatever it takes to keep them safe and happy!
Coyotes on the Prowl in Massachusetts - What To Do If You See One!
Don't Feed Them
OK. This is a no-brainer folks. Coyotes are like the neighborhood kids. If you feed them, they come back. And then you can’t get rid of them.
Coyote Attacks on the Rise
Protect Your Pets
Keep your pets leashed. And a fence doesn’t necessarily mean safety. Never leave your pet outside unattended. Also, domestic cats should stay indoors. And an electric fence only works one way, people. So keep that in mind.
Coyote on a Golf Course
Don't Run
Instead of running, shout or throw something in its direction. But don’t play victim. Be aggressive.
Coyote couple stalking neighborhood
Report a Sighting
According to Urban Coyote Research, when a coyote fails to exhibit fear of humans or acts aggressively, the animal should be reported as soon as possible to the appropriate officials. “It is recommended that towns have a procedure in place to handle these reports. Signs of aggression are similar to those shown by domestic dogs and include agitated barking (unprovoked), raised hackles, snarling, growling, and lunging. These behaviors are usually preceded by other indications as shown in the chart below, though may change seasonally.”
Coyote stalking pets
One last thing: This is a pretty good movie.
Too bad the bar is closed. No more bar dancing and swinging bras! But not a bad movie!
