By Stephen Smoot
Though only present in the area for the past 50 years, according to West Virginia University Extension, the eastern coyote has spread rapidly across West Virginia since then. As it states on its website, “this remarkably rapid expansion has been due in part to the near extinction of larger predators, such as the mountain lion and timber wolf, and also to the population growth of white-tailed deer.”
Coyotes normally feast on the wildlife in the forests. They hunt for white tailed deer, but also eat rodents, rabbits, even insects, as well as plants, berries, fruits, and dead animal matter.
While not more aggressive during mating season, coyotes change their focus during this important time. As a Massachusetts website states “Coyotes are very active during the winter while courting mates and defending their territory.”
Mating season in eastern states ranges from mid January through mid March. During this time, male coyotes especially grow more aggressive toward domesticated animals. Males establish and defend a defined territory. Coyotes do not necessarily stay in pairs for life, but will breed together repeatedly over time.
Domestic dogs are very vulnerable in this time. Coyotes will see males as competition for females and male dogs will chase female coyotes in breeding condition. Dog owners need to keep their animals leashed or inside during these months.
Coyotes are also more liable to attack cats as well during this time.
Over the decades, coyotes have grown accustomed to living among humans and habitats overlap more and more over time.
Experts suggest that to keep pets and others safe during coyote mating season, make sure they are in a supervised or secure location. This includes cats, who coyotes may mistake for dogs or their normal sources of food.
Stay close when keeping watch on pets, day or night.
Coyotes like to scavenge dead meat, so human garbage serves a a prime attractor. Make sure garbage or other possible sources of human food are locked away. When coyotes get used to eating human food – or if humans actively feed them – this makes them more comfortable around humans. This also makes them more dangerous to humans.
Some experts recommend that humans “haze” coyotes with loud noises, such as clanging metal together or using an air horn, spraying a hose at them, or other attempts to scare them.
That said, farmers and others in rural areas often prefer hunting and killing them instead.
According to the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, “there is no daily, annual, or season bag on coyotes.” Hunters can use electronic calls as well.
Additionally, hunters will need a license. They can use artificial light to track and kill them from Jan 1 to Aug 31, but from Sept 1 until Dec 31 they must use natural light. Hunters must use rifles and pistols of .22 calibre and shotguns with No. 2 shot or smaller.
Check with WVDNR for the full slate of rules and regulations.