DEC Shares Adorable Photo While Warning New Yorkers

Coyotes are like the all-terrain vehicles of wildlife in New York. They can be found in rural spots, roaming along the paths in the forest, and even finding themselves in suburban and urban areas.

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These animals usually keep their distance from us humans but can get a little bit territorial and protective, especially during the spring when baby coyotes are around.

How to Keep the Peace

To avoid any potential problem with coyotes, just remember a few simple rules. First, never dish out a free meal to these wild critters—they're better off finding their own food. Keep your snacks indoors, and if you come across a coyote, let them do their thing from a safe distance.

It also doesn't hurt to educate yourself and others on the coyote code of conduct. Don't let your pets run free and it's not a bad idea keeping them on a leash. Here are some other ways to avoid wildlife conflicts.

Build Your Defenses

If you want to keep coyotes out of your personal space, put up some coyote-proof boundaries around your yard. Clear out any hiding spots like tall grass and bushes to make your house less inviting to these furry wanderers.

When to Sound the Alarm

Sure, bumping into a coyote every now and then is nothing to worry about. But if you notice them acting a bit too bold or lurking around during the day, it might be time to call in the reinforcements. Reach out to your Regional DEC Wildlife Office for help!