Coyotes showing up in the yard might sound like something out of a cartoon, but it’s surprisingly common these days. I’ve had a few unexpected guests trot across my lawn, and trust me—it gets your heart racing.
Before you panic or try to chase one off with a broom (don’t!), there are smart ways to handle the situation. These curious canines are bold, but with the right approach, you can keep things safe for everyone.
Here’s what I’ve learned from experience and a whole lot of neighborly stories.
1. Install Motion-Activated Sprinklers
Nothing sends a coyote running faster than an unexpected spray of water! These clever devices detect movement and release a quick burst of water when triggered.
Most coyotes learn quickly to avoid areas where they’ve been surprised. The combination of sudden movement, noise, and water creates a harmless but effective deterrent that works day and night without requiring your constant attention.
2. Secure Your Trash Cans
Hungry coyotes find your garbage irresistible. Using animal-proof containers with tight-fitting lids or bungee cords prevents access to this easy meal source.
Store bins inside your garage or shed until collection day when possible. Removing this food attraction significantly reduces the chances of coyotes considering your property as part of their regular buffet route.
3. Install Proper Fencing
A well-designed fence forms your first line of defense against curious coyotes. The barrier should be at least 6 feet tall with an additional 18 inches buried underground to prevent digging.
Adding a coyote roller or outward-facing extension at the top stops these agile jumpers from climbing over. While initially expensive, proper fencing provides long-term protection for both your garden and any small pets.
4. Remove Fallen Fruit
Fruit trees create an unintentional coyote buffet when ripe produce falls to the ground. Regular cleanup prevents this attractive food source from drawing unwanted visitors into your yard.
Check beneath fruit-bearing plants daily during harvest season. Even small amounts of forgotten fruit can attract rodents, which in turn attract coyotes looking for an easy meal. Maintaining a tidy garden significantly reduces your property’s appeal.
5. Use Light Deterrents
Coyotes prefer to hunt under cover of darkness, making strategic lighting an effective deterrent. Solar-powered flashing lights that activate at night create an unwelcoming environment for these cautious predators.
String lights around garden perimeters or motion-activated flood lights in key areas work particularly well. The unpredictable nature of motion-activated options prevents coyotes from becoming accustomed to consistent light patterns over time.
6. Apply Wolf Urine
Coyotes have a healthy fear of wolves, their natural predators. Commercial wolf urine (available at garden centers) creates the illusion that a dangerous predator has marked your territory.
Apply the scent around the perimeter of your property, refreshing it after rain. While it might seem unusual, this method effectively triggers the coyote’s instinctual fear response, encouraging them to seek safer hunting grounds elsewhere.
7. Create Noise Deterrents
Loud, unexpected sounds startle coyotes and discourage them from lingering. Wind chimes, portable radios tuned to talk stations, or aluminum cans filled with coins on a string create effective noise barriers.
Place these devices strategically around garden boundaries. The unpredictable nature of these sounds prevents coyotes from becoming accustomed to them, unlike constant noise that they eventually learn to ignore.
8. Eliminate Hiding Spots
Coyotes seek dense vegetation and cluttered areas for shelter and stalking prey. Regular trimming of tall grasses, bushes, and low-hanging branches removes these potential hiding places.
Clear away wood piles, unused garden equipment, and other debris that could provide cover. Creating an open landscape with good visibility makes your garden less appealing to coyotes that prefer to remain hidden while hunting or resting.
9. Install Coyote Rollers
These ingenious devices consist of rotating metal or PVC pipes attached to the top of fencing. When coyotes attempt to climb over, the rollers spin, preventing them from gaining the leverage needed to cross.
DIY versions can be made using PVC pipe threaded with wire along fence tops. This humane barrier works without harming the animals while effectively keeping them out of your protected garden space.
10. Use Natural Repellent Plants
Certain plants naturally repel coyotes with their strong scents. Wolfsbane, garlic, onion, peppers, and mint create smells that these predators find offensive and overwhelming.
Strategic planting around garden perimeters creates a natural barrier. The advantage of this method is its dual purpose – you gain beautiful or useful plants while simultaneously creating a scent boundary that discourages unwanted wildlife visitors.
11. Hazing Techniques
Hazing involves making yourself appear threatening to teach coyotes to fear humans. Waving arms, making loud noises, or using a whistle when you spot them reinforces that your property isn’t safe for them.
Always maintain a safe distance during hazing. Consistency is crucial – all family members should practice these techniques whenever coyotes are spotted to prevent them from becoming comfortable around humans or your garden space.
12. Remove Water Sources
Garden ponds, bird baths, and leaky hoses provide drinking opportunities that attract coyotes, especially during dry seasons. Limiting accessible water makes your property less appealing as a regular stopping point.
Consider draining ornamental water features temporarily if coyote activity increases. For necessary water sources like irrigation systems, use them only during daylight hours and fix any leaks promptly to minimize standing water.
13. Apply Commercial Repellents
Several natural commercial repellents use predator urine, garlic, or capsaicin to create barriers coyotes won’t cross. These products come in granular form or sprays for easy application around garden perimeters.
Follow package instructions for optimal effectiveness. Most require reapplication after rain or every few weeks. The advantage of commercial options is their concentrated formulations, often more potent than homemade alternatives.
14. Guard Animals
Certain livestock guardian dogs like Great Pyrenees or donkeys naturally protect territory from coyotes. These animals develop strong bonds with your property and actively patrol against intruders.
Their presence alone often deters coyotes from approaching. While this solution requires commitment to animal care, guard animals provide round-the-clock protection and companionship while effectively keeping predators away from your garden and home.
15. Maintain Regular Human Activity
Coyotes typically avoid areas with consistent human presence. Spending time in your garden regularly, especially during dawn and dusk when coyotes are most active, discourages them from considering it safe territory.
Varying your routine prevents coyotes from predicting when the garden will be empty. Simple activities like gardening, reading outside, or playing with children create human activity patterns that make your space less attractive to wildlife seeking quiet hunting grounds.