COYOTES SPOTTED IN GOLF
For the safety of pets, the Village of Golf recommends keeping cats indoors and dogs should be let out only with direct
supervision and on a leash, even in a fenced in back yard.
Coyotes In Residential Areas ~ Things You Need to Know
Coyotes are a common wild animal in this area of Illinois. The Chicagoland area has seen a dramatic increase in the
coyote population since the 1990s, and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources estimates there are more than
30,000 coyotes in Illinois. Usually they reside in wooded areas; however, they enter residential neighborhoods
occasionally.
Seeing a coyote(s) cross a field, backyard, golf course, road, etc. does not necessarily constitute a problem or a
dangerous situation for humans or domestic animals. The following information is intended to educate residents about
coyotes and the steps you can take to discourage them from frequenting residential areas.
How to Deter Coyotes:
While coyotes are valuable in decreasing the rodent population, their presence in populated areas can be problematic.
Coyotes can become a nuisance when they have easy access to food in residential areas, such as pet food or garbage.
To discourage their presence:
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Do feed pets indoors or promptly remove dishes when pets complete their meal outside. Store bags of pet
food indoors.
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Do clear brush and dense weeds from around property. This deprives rodents of shelter and reduces
protective cover for coyotes.
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Do use trash barrels equipped with tight clamping devices on the lids, which will prevent spills should they be
tipped over by large animals.
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Do try to educate your friends and neighbors about the problems associated with feeding coyotes.
DO NOT feed or provide water for coyotes or other wildlife. This practice abnormally attracts coyotes and
promotes increased numbers of rodents, birds, snakes and other creatures that can provide major portions of
the coyote’s natural diet.
How to Protect Pets:
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Keep small pets (cats, rabbits, small dogs) indoors. Don’t allow them to run free at any time.
Dogs should be brought inside after dark and never allowed to run loose. This is especially important during
mating season, which is February through April.
Allow dogs outside only with direct supervision even in a fenced in back yard.
DO NOT leave domestic pet food outside. Wildlife will soon depend on it.
What to do if you encounter a coyote:
If you encounter a coyote, shout, clap or throw something in its direction (not directly at the coyote). Acting
aggressively helps re-instill a fear of humans in coyotes and encourages them to stay away from residential areas.
For More Information:
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Illinois Department of Natural Resources: wow.dnr.state.il.us/orc/wildlife/furbearers/coyote.htm
Living with Wildlife In Illinois, University of Illinois
Extension:http://m.extension.illinois.edu/wildlife/directory_show.cfm?species=coyote