How Dangerous is a Coyote? [Sarasota, FL]

Posted on January 27, 2018 by Elizabeth — No Comments ↓

Coyotes are not known to be aggressive toward humans.

Always remember that a coyote is a wild animal. They are not domesticated and therefore it is very difficult if not impossible to say with certainty about their behavior. Coyotes are known to attack dogs, sheep, and other livestock, so yes they can and will bite. Coyotes attacks on humans are uncommon and rarely cause serious injuries. The overarching problem is that any animal, if it loses its fear of humans, can act more and more aggressively. It is impossible to know what any given coyote’s exposure to humans has been. So, therefore, it is best to consider any sightings with the utmost of respect– Know where the spatial boundaries are and stay well within them. Never ever feed or pet a wild animal.

If a coyote was cornered, or also if there were pups around– it is much more likely they would get aggressive. Typically however, if given space the animals will run away to avoid rather than getting into a fight and risking an injury making them vulnerable.

There are some recorded instances where a child or vulnerable adult was attacked. Read more about those here: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coyote_attacks_on_humans

FOR COYOTE TRAPPING AND REMOVAL IN MANATEE/SARASOTA CALL 1-866-263-WILD!

IF YOU ENCOUNTER A COYOTE:

Don’t turn your back, and don’t run. They might chase you and they can run up to 40 mph.
If the coyote moves closer use the method known as “hazing.”
- Blow a very loud whistle.
  
  BLOW WHISTLE TO STARTLE AND DEFLECT (Image CR Pixabay)
- Clap hands loudly and stomp feet.
  
  Clap hands loudly if confronted by a coyote. [Lakewood Ranch Sarasota Bradenton]
- Throw sticks or rocks at their feet.
- If you don’t have anything available, act large ie. open your jacket, raise your arms and yell.
Don’t engage a coyote that is cornered, injured or with pups – instead slowly walk away backwards.