Coyotes can be a real nuisance, especially when they start wandering into your backyard. While these wild animals may look harmless, they can cause problems for pets, gardens, and even property. Keeping them at bay doesn’t have to be difficult, though!
With a few clever tips and tricks, you can create a coyote-free zone around your home. From securing food sources to using natural deterrents, here are 20 practical ways to keep coyotes out of your backyard and protect your space.
1. Install High Fencing
Transform your backyard into Fort Knox by installing high fencing. A fence standing at least 8 feet tall acts like a bouncer, keeping unwanted furry guests out. Make sure it’s sturdy, with no gaps or holes for sneaky coyotes to squeeze through.
Consider adding an outward-facing overhang to your fence. This extra layer of defense can deter these agile jumpers from scaling it. With this fortress-like fence, coyotes will think twice before attempting a backyard visit.
2. Remove Attractants
Coyotes have a keen nose for leftovers and pet food. Keeping your yard free of these temptations is key. Regularly clean up food scraps and store pet food indoors.
Trash cans should be tightly sealed to prevent scavenging. Without these attractions, your backyard becomes a less appealing buffet. Coyotes will soon search elsewhere for their next meal.
3. Use Motion-Activated Lights
Lights, camera, action! Coyotes hate surprises, and motion-activated lights do just that. As soon as a curious coyote steps into your yard, BAM, they’re in the spotlight.
These lights not only startle but also illuminate their presence, making them uneasy. A sudden burst of light can send them scurrying away. Your backyard becomes an unwelcome stage for their antics.
4. Install Noise Makers
Sound the alarm! Coyotes don’t appreciate a noisy neighborhood. Installing wind chimes or motion-activated noise makers can turn your backyard into a symphony of deterrence.
As coyotes approach, these sounds break the silence, sending them packing. The unexpected racket acts like a natural scarecrow. With this auditory arsenal, your backyard remains coyote-free.
5. Keep Pets Indoors
Safety first for your furry friends! Coyotes see pets as potential prey, so keeping them indoors is a smart move. This way, your pets stay safe from these cunning predators.
If they must go outside, supervise them closely. A watchful eye can prevent unexpected encounters. With pets inside, coyotes are less likely to linger in your yard.
6. Trim Bushes and Shrubs
Coyotes love a good hide-and-seek. By trimming bushes and shrubs, you eliminate their hiding spots. It makes your backyard less inviting for these sneaky guests.
A tidy landscape offers fewer opportunities for surprise visits. With clear visibility, coyotes may think twice about hanging around. Your yard becomes a less enticing playground for them.
7. Install Coyote Rollers
Roll out the red carpet for safety! Coyote rollers are a nifty invention that prevents animals from scaling fences. They consist of rotating bars placed on top of the fence.
When a coyote tries to climb, the rollers spin, causing them to lose grip. It’s like a gym workout gone wrong for them. With this rolling deterrent, your yard remains secure.
8. Use Coyote Repellent
Repel those rascally coyotes with a spray of coyote repellent. These products use natural ingredients to create an unpleasant scent for coyotes. Spraying it around the yard’s perimeter can keep them at bay.
Reapply regularly, especially after rain. This olfactory offense keeps your backyard off their radar. Coyotes will sniff elsewhere for more pleasant scents.
9. Install Motion-Activated Sprinklers
Turn your yard into a splash zone! Motion-activated sprinklers surprise coyotes with a sudden spray of water. This unexpected shower often sends them scrambling away.
The element of surprise works wonders in deterring them. Plus, your lawn gets watered in the process. It’s a win-win for a coyote-free backyard.
10. Secure Garbage Cans
Coyotes have a knack for dumpster diving. To prevent this, ensure your garbage cans are tightly sealed. Consider using bungee cords or locks to keep lids in place.
A secure trash area means fewer midnight snack raids. With no easy access, coyotes will soon lose interest. They’ll look elsewhere for their next scavenging adventure.
11. Create a Scarecrow
Scarecrows aren’t just for birds! Get creative and build a scarecrow to spook coyotes away. Use colorful clothes and silly hats for added effect.
The presence of a human-like figure can make coyotes wary. Placing it in different spots keeps them on their toes. It’s an old-school trick with a new twist for coyote control.
12. Use Predator Urine
Nature has its own deterrents. Predator urine, like that of wolves, can make coyotes think twice. Sprinkling it around your yard mimics the presence of a larger predator.
This scent signal warns them to stay away. For best results, reapply periodically. It’s a natural way to mark your territory and keep coyotes at bay.
13. Limit Water Sources
Coyotes are thirsty, too! Remove or limit water sources in your yard to reduce their interest. Bird baths and pet bowls can attract them, so keep these indoors or empty.
Without water, your backyard loses its appeal as a watering hole. Coyotes will wander off to quench their thirst elsewhere. Your dry yard becomes less of a coyote magnet.
14. Install Electric Fencing
For the ultimate defense, consider electric fencing. It adds a shocking layer of protection against coyotes. When they try to cross, they receive a harmless but memorable zap.
The unpleasant surprise discourages future visits. It’s a modern twist on traditional barriers. With electric fencing, your backyard becomes a no-go zone for coyotes.
15. Use Reflective Surfaces
Shiny things aren’t just for magpies. Reflective surfaces can confuse and deter coyotes. Mirrors, shiny tapes, and CDs hung around the yard can create a disorienting effect.
The unexpected glints of light make them uneasy. It’s a simple yet effective way to keep them at bay. Your backyard turns into a shimmering fortress.
16. Train Your Dog
Man’s best friend can also be a backyard guardian. Train your dog to recognize and alert you to coyote presence. Their barking can deter coyotes from coming closer.
Be sure to reward your dog for their vigilance. A well-trained dog acts as a natural deterrent. With their help, coyotes will steer clear of your territory.
17. Build a Coyote Denial Barrier
For a natural approach, construct a coyote denial barrier. Use rocks and dense foliage to create a physical obstacle. This landscape feature deters coyotes from venturing into your yard.
The effort required to navigate such barriers often sends them elsewhere. It’s both a practical and aesthetic addition. Your yard gains beauty and security simultaneously.
18. Install Night Vision Cameras
Catch them in the act with night vision cameras. These gadgets allow you to monitor coyote activity under the cloak of darkness. Knowing their movements helps plan further deterrents.
The mere presence of cameras can discourage exploration. It’s like having an extra set of eyes watching over your yard. With surveillance, coyotes remain under your radar.
19. Limit Bird Feeders
Bird feeders can inadvertently attract coyotes. Limiting or removing them reduces the allure of an easy meal. Spilled seeds and bird activity can draw these opportunists in.
Instead, opt for other ways to enjoy birdwatching without feeders. Coyotes will need to find other dining options. Your yard becomes less of a snack stop.
20. Set Up a Perimeter Barrier
Nature provides its own defenses. Plant thorny bushes and dense shrubs along your yard’s perimeter. This natural barrier can deter coyotes from crossing into your space.
The prickly surprise isn’t worth the trouble for them. It adds a layer of beauty and protection. With this green barrier, your backyard stays coyote-free.