How To Avoid Conflict With Coyotes During Illinois Mating Season

In Illinois, you'll see many more coyotes than usual. It's mating season and your chances of crossing paths with one are greater. Here's what you should know if you encounter one.

If you find a coyote in your yard, there are several steps you can take to handle the situation safely, and running like hell in the opposite direction is NOT one of them.

Before getting to those steps though, here's what you should know about coyotes' mating season in Illinois.

Illinois Coyote Mating Season

Breeding peaks in late February or early March. Their gestation is approximately 58 to 65 days, which means pups are born during late April or May, according to illinoiswildlife.org.

This is important to know also as coyotes will be more aggressive once those babies are here.

What To Do if You See a Coyote

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Stay Calm

Coyotes are generally not aggressive towards humans unless they feel threatened or cornered. Remain calm and avoid sudden movements.

Keep Pets Indoors

If you have pets, especially small dogs or cats, bring them indoors immediately to prevent any potential confrontation with the coyote.

Make Noise

Try to scare the coyote away by making loud noises, such as clapping your hands, banging pots and pans together, or using an air horn. Coyotes are generally wary of loud or unexpected sounds.

MORE: Coyotes In Illinois: There Are A Lot More Than You Might Think

Remove Attractants

Ensure that there are no food sources or attractants in your yard that might be drawing the coyote. This includes securing garbage cans, removing pet food from outside, and cleaning up any fallen fruit.

Secure Your Property

If possible, fence off your yard to prevent the coyote from entering. Make sure the fence is at least six feet tall and extends underground to prevent digging.
Avoid Confrontation: Do not attempt to approach or corner the coyote. Give it space and allow it to leave on its own.

Contact Authorities if Necessary

If the coyote appears sick, injured, or behaves aggressively, contact your local animal control or wildlife management agency for assistance. They can provide guidance on how to handle the situation safely.

Remember, coyotes are wild animals, and it's essential to treat them with caution and respect.