Kane County Animal Control Addresses 'Coexisting With Coyotes'

Press release from the City of Batavia:

Coyote sightings are some of the most popular social posts in local media in Batavia, but it is always good to review the precautions that can be taken living in an area with coyotes and what might attract them in the first place. Kane County Animal Control has provided an article and educational tips on this subject:

• Don’t feed any wild animals such as raccoons or deer, which encourages coyotes as well. Garbage should be stored in secure containers. Do not put meat scraps in compost piles.
• Remove bird feeders and outside pet food containers. Coyotes will prey upon small mammals that are attracted to birdseed and pet food.
• Don’t allow pets to run free and keep a watchful eye on them. Walk dogs on a leash, especially at night. Keep cats indoors at all times. Do not let pets out at night unless accompanied by a person. Don’t leave cat or dog food outside.
• Provide secure shelters for poultry, rabbits, or other outside pets.
• Clear wood piles, brush piles and other potential cover for coyotes. Secure garbage in areas where coyotes can’t access it; keep yards clean of refuse and brush.
• Don’t leave small children outside unattended.
• Reinforce the coyotes' natural fear of humans by turning on outside lights, making loud noises, throwing rocks and so forth. Be aggressive in your actions. Although the response may not be immediate, eventually the coyotes will flee.
• Consider fencing your yard. Use a minimum height of 6 feet and bury the bottom at least six inches below ground level. Slant the top of the fence away from the enclosed area to prevent them from getting over the top.
• Encourage your neighbors to follow the same advice.

For the rest of the information and fact sheets on coyotes, visit Kane County Animal Control's website

This press release was produced by the City of Batavia. The views expressed here are the author’s own.