Coyote

Coyotes have been in the City of Hudson and the State of Ohio for many years and have rarely caused harm. Coyotes are more visible in the spring and fall, and appear more often at dawn and at dusk. They are generally shy and cautious and pose little danger for humans. They are unlikely to attack unless provoked, or while protecting their den or cubs. There have been very few incidents involving aggressive coyotes in Hudson. The potential for coyote attacks increase in the April- May timeframe, when adult coyotes are protecting their young.

The coyote’s normal diet is rodents, rabbits and carrion/deer, although in urban environments, they may prey on small pets. The risk to small pets increases during the winter months, particularly in a bad winter where natural food sources are scarce. 

If you know that coyotes are in the area, it is best to keep your small pets inside at night when coyotes are most active. Coyotes live in a social unit made up of an adult pair and their young. They do not form packs beyond this social unit.
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While the coyote population is increasing, it is at a slow rate, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Rabies or other diseases are uncommon in coyotes in Ohio. Because the County does raccoon baiting with a rabies vaccine, it has helped minimize the rabies problem in the coyote population, since they will also eat the bait.

There are a number of things homeowners can do to discourage coyotes from visiting their property. Here is a link to a handout “Coexisting with Coyotes” that the City has published. In addition, visit the following resources and links for more information or to talk to a wildlife expert.
 Below is an informative video called "In Search of Coyotes.



Additional Resources


Further Reading