Coexisting with Coyotes
Did you know that coyotes are present in all of Ohio’s 88 counties, and have been since the 1980’s? Coyotes are a highly adaptable and common species in Ohio and may be seen during the day. Coyotes often appear much larger than they actually are due to their fluffy coats. An adult coyote is typically about 20 pounds in weight but can occasionally reach 25-35 pounds. If a coyote is seen during the day, it does not necessarily mean that it is sick.
You may see a coyote in any of the Portage Parks, even during the day. Be aware, and be prepared to act effectively:
- Stay on designated trails.
- Keep pets on a leash and under control.
- Yell, shout and clap your hands if you encounter a coyote in close proximity.
- If a coyote is unaffected by these techniques and appears to have no fear of humans, or if it appears sick or aggressive, report the encounter to Portage Park District (330-297-7228) or our Portage County ODNR Wildlife Officer Marino Pellegrini (330-245-3040).
In the cases where coyote control is warranted, identification and removal of individual problematic coyotes is the only effective method of control. Indiscriminately hunting random, individual coyotes does not reduce the local population and can actually create unpredictable behaviors and increased breeding within the population.
Avoid conflicts with coyotes around your home by keeping your pets on a leash at all times, going out with your leashed pet at night, and keeping a light on while outside with your leashed pet. Coyotes are opportunistic scavengers. Removing attractants around your home such as bird feeders, pet foods, garbage, and grills can prevent coyotes from viewing humans as food providers. If an individual coyote becomes habituated to foraging around your home or taking livestock, you may consider contacting an Ohio Commercial Nuisance Animal Control Operator. Contact information for these Operators can be found on the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ website.
A recorded webinar about Coyotes taught by Jamey Emmert with ODNR-Division of Wildlife can be found on our park YouTube site.