After migrating from the MidWest, the first documented sighting of a coyote in Maryland was in 1972. Since then, coyotes have lived a relatively quiet and secluded life away from urban developments.
Even though the chances of coming across a coyote are low, the Shumaker Animal Control team believes every Maryland resident should know how to avoid conflicts with coyotes.
Knowing How To Spot A Coyote
Coyotes are a part of the canine species, which means they are related to wolves and domesticated dogs. In fact, coyotes closely resemble the German Shepherd dog breed.
Coyotes are easily distinguished by their narrow snout, flatter forehead erect ears, and long bushy tail. They are predominantly reddish-brown or gray colored with a white chest and stomach.
Unlike domestic canines who have brown eyes or the occasional blue eyes, coyotes have yellow eyes.
Intimidate Them
Coyotes are generally known for not being fond of anything that is new or unfamiliar. So if you do happen to come across a coyote while walking in the woods, it is important to be confident.
Stand tall and try to make yourself appear larger by raising your arms, holding your jacket open, or holding up your backpack. This will help them to see you not as a target or prey. While they might be curious at first, chances are, they will most likely continue on and leave you alone.
Individuals should also show confidence by looking at the animal. This will let them know that you see them and are not scared of them. Do not, however, stare them down in a confrontational or challenging way.
Coyotes typically are wary of humans, so being confident and making your presence known will likely be enough to scare them off or prevent conflict.
Do Not Run Away
After seeing a wild animal in public, your first instinct is going to be to run away. But in this case, you should never turn away or run away from a coyote. Fleeing might trigger the animal’s natural instinct to chase its prey, or in the scenario, you.
Instead, individuals should back away slowly and head towards buildings or other areas of human activity. This will lower the chances of the coyote approaching you or following you.
Make Noise
One of the best ways to avoid conflict with coyotes is by making loud noise. This will startle them and hopefully scare them away.
When walking or hiking outdoors, always come prepared with a whistle. If you do not have a whistle on hand, shouting in a deep voice and clapping your hands is also an effective tactic.
Have A Wild Animal Problem? Call the Experts at Shumaker Animal Control
If you think you have a wild animal problem on your property, call the experts at Shumaker Animal Control to deal with the problem for you. Our experienced team will take care of the problem in a timely manner, ensuring that your home and pets are not in any danger.
At Shumaker Animal Control, we are a family-owned business who cares about the safety of you and your family but also about the well-being of the animals themselves. All of our trapping and control methods are humane, as we never try to hurt the angry or scared animal.
Want to learn more about how to avoid conflicts with coyotes? Call us at 443-854-8072, visit our website or fill out our contact form for more information.