Picture this — you step outside to grab the mail and lock eyes with a coyote standing at the edge of your Delaware yard. Your heart skips a beat, and your first instinct might be to run, yell, or toss something nearby. But hold your horses.
Coyotes are becoming more common in suburban areas, and how you respond can make all the difference between a peaceful retreat and unwanted trouble.
1. Make Yourself Look Bigger And Intimidating
Coyotes naturally fear humans, so appearing larger can reinforce that instinct. Raise your arms above your head, stand on your tiptoes, or open your jacket wide like wings.
You want the animal to see you as a threat, not prey. Wave your arms around and take up as much space as possible.
Most coyotes will back away when they realize you’re not an easy target.
2. Use Loud Noises To Scare It Away
Sound can be your best defense when a coyote wanders too close. Yell firmly, clap your hands hard, or bang pots and pans together to create a racket.
Whistles, air horns, and even shaking a can filled with coins work wonders. The goal is to startle the animal and make your yard feel unwelcoming.
Loud, sudden noises usually send coyotes running back toward wooded areas.
3. Back Away Slowly Without Turning Your Back
Running triggers a chase instinct in many predators, including coyotes. Instead, move backward carefully while keeping your eyes on the animal at all times.
Maintain eye contact and continue facing the coyote as you increase the distance. Walk confidently but not aggressively toward safety, like your house or car.
Never sprint away or turn around suddenly, as this could encourage pursuit.
4. Throw Objects Near (Not At) The Coyote
Tossing sticks, rocks, or other items near the coyote reinforces that your space is off-limits. Aim for the ground close to the animal rather than hitting it directly.
You’re trying to intimidate, not injure. Landing objects nearby creates noise and movement that discourages the coyote from lingering.
Keep several throwable items handy if you live in an area with frequent sightings.
5. Bring Pets And Children Inside Immediately
Small animals and kids can look like easy prey to a hungry coyote. As soon as you spot one, calmly but quickly gather everyone and head indoors.
Don’t leave pets tied up outside or let them roam freely during dawn and dusk when coyotes are most active. Supervision is critical in Delaware areas where wildlife appears regularly.
Safety always comes first, so get your family inside before attempting any deterrent methods.
6. Spray Water From A Hose If Available
Water is a harmless but effective way to encourage a coyote to leave your Delaware property. If you’re near a garden hose, turn it on and spray in the animal’s direction.
Coyotes dislike getting wet and will usually retreat quickly. This method works especially well if the animal seems curious but not aggressive.
Keep a hose accessible near your back door during seasons when wildlife activity increases.
7. Report The Sighting To Delaware Wildlife Officials
Documenting coyote encounters helps authorities track patterns and protect communities. Contact the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife to file a report after any sighting.
Include details like the date, time, location, and the coyote’s behavior. Your information could prevent dangerous situations for other families.
Officials may offer additional advice or investigate if the animal appears sick or overly bold around humans.
8. Don’t Run Away Or Turn Your Back
Flight triggers predatory instincts in coyotes, making running one of the worst reactions possible. Sprinting signals that you’re prey, which could provoke a chase.
Turning your back removes the intimidation factor and makes you appear vulnerable. Always face the animal and move away deliberately.
Staying calm and assertive keeps you in control of the situation and reduces risk significantly.
9. Avoid Approaching Or Trying To Feed It
Getting closer to a wild coyote is dangerous and illegal in many Delaware areas. These animals carry diseases and can bite if they feel cornered or threatened.
Feeding coyotes teaches them to associate humans with food, which leads to bolder behavior and more frequent visits. Once they lose their natural fear, they become a community problem.
Admire wildlife from a safe distance and never offer food of any kind.
10. Never Leave Small Pets Unattended Outside
Cats and small dogs are exactly the size of prey coyotes hunt in the wild. Leaving them alone in your Delaware yard, even for a few minutes, puts them at serious risk.
Always supervise outdoor time, especially during early morning and evening hours when coyotes are actively hunting. Consider using a leash even in fenced areas.
Prevention is easier than dealing with a tragedy, so stay vigilant about pet safety.
11. Don’t Ignore Repeated Sightings In Your Neighborhood
Frequent coyote appearances in Delaware signal a bigger issue that needs community attention. Ignoring the problem allows animals to become bolder and more comfortable around homes.
Talk to neighbors, share information, and work together to remove attractants like unsecured trash or pet food left outside. Collective action makes neighborhoods less appealing to wildlife.
Contact local animal control if sightings increase or if coyotes show aggressive behavior toward people.