Coyotes showing up in Tennessee yards can be surprising, but staying calm makes things a whole lot easier.
I’ve seen one wander through my neighborhood before, and it taught me how important the right approach is. A few smart steps can keep both your family and the animal safe.
Knowing what not to do is just as important, so you can handle the situation smoothly from start to finish.
1. Make Loud Noises and Act Big
Coyotes usually fear humans and will retreat when confronted boldly. If you spot one in your Tennessee yard, stand tall, wave your arms overhead, and shout firmly to assert dominance. Clapping, banging pots, or using an air horn works wonders too.
Never turn your back or run away, as this triggers their chase instinct. Face the animal while slowly backing toward safety. Most coyotes will leave quickly when they realize you’re not afraid and won’t provide an easy meal.
2. Remove Food Sources from Your Property
Coyotes wander into neighborhoods primarily because they smell food. Pet food left outside, unsecured garbage bins, and fallen fruit from trees attract these opportunistic eaters to Tennessee properties. Bring pet dishes inside after feeding time and use trash cans with locking lids.
Bird feeders can also draw coyotes since they attract rodents and small animals. Clean up any spilled seed regularly. Compost piles should be enclosed properly to avoid becoming a wildlife buffet that keeps coyotes coming back for more.
3. Install Motion-Activated Lights and Sprinklers
Coyotes prefer hunting under the cover of darkness when they feel safer. Motion-activated lighting startles them and makes your Tennessee yard less appealing for nighttime visits. Position lights around vulnerable areas like chicken coops, pet doors, and play areas.
Adding motion-activated sprinklers provides an extra layer of defense. When a coyote triggers the sensor, a sudden spray of water sends them running without causing harm. These deterrents work automatically, protecting your property even when you’re asleep or away from home.
4. Secure Small Pets and Supervise Outdoor Time
Small dogs and cats look like prey to hungry coyotes, especially during dawn and dusk feeding hours. Always supervise your pets when they’re outside in Tennessee, even in fenced yards. Coyotes can jump surprisingly high fences or dig underneath them.
Keep cats indoors permanently if coyotes frequent your neighborhood. Walk dogs on a short leash rather than letting them roam freely. Installing coyote rollers on fence tops prevents climbing, giving your furry family members better protection from these persistent predators.
5. Build or Reinforce Your Fencing
Standard fences won’t always keep determined coyotes out of your Tennessee yard. Build fences at least six feet tall with no gaps at the bottom where animals can squeeze through. Bury the fence base about six inches underground to prevent digging.
Adding a coyote roller system along the top creates a spinning barrier that makes climbing impossible. Wire mesh or hardware cloth reinforcement at ground level provides extra security. Inspect your fence regularly for damage or weak spots that clever coyotes might exploit.
6. Leaving Pets Outside Unattended at Night
Many Tennessee pet owners make the dangerous mistake of letting animals outside alone after dark. Coyotes are most active during twilight hours and nighttime when they hunt for food. Your beloved pet becomes an easy target without supervision.
Even large dogs can be lured away by coyotes using pack tactics. Install a pet door that locks at night to prevent unsupervised access. Always accompany your pets outside during evening bathroom breaks, carrying a flashlight to spot any lurking wildlife before trouble starts.
7. Feeding or Approaching Coyotes
Some Tennessee residents mistakenly think feeding coyotes will keep them peaceful or make nice photos. This dangerous practice removes their natural fear of humans and creates aggressive behavior. Fed coyotes lose their wariness and may approach people, children, or pets expecting handouts.
Never attempt to pet, photograph up close, or befriend wild coyotes. They’re unpredictable animals that can bite or attack when feeling threatened or territorial. Report anyone feeding wildlife to local authorities since this behavior endangers entire neighborhoods.
8. Ignoring Repeated Coyote Sightings
Seeing one coyote might be coincidence, but frequent sightings in your Tennessee neighborhood signal a bigger problem. Ignoring this pattern allows coyotes to establish territory and become bolder around humans. They’ll start feeling comfortable approaching homes, garages, and populated areas.
Contact your local wildlife management agency when coyotes appear regularly. They can assess the situation and provide professional guidance or intervention if necessary. Document sightings with dates, times, and locations to help authorities understand patterns and protect your community effectively.