Young start to leave their parents’ homes in fall to find their own territories.
DuPage County residents might see more coyotes between now and February as young leave their parents in search of mates and territories to call their own, according to the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County.
People may also see coyotes more frequently in winter because there’s less vegetation, which means the animals have fewer places to hide. Snow on the ground makes them easier to spot, too. Coyotes are also more active because they have to spend more time foraging for food. A rise in sightings doesn’t necessarily mean a rise in the county’s coyote population, though. Still, because of this seasonal increase in activity, people with pets should be especially vigilant.
Hungry coyotes may be drawn to unsecured garbage cans, pet food, open compost piles, bird feeders, or fallen fruit under trees and shrubs. Keeping yards clean can limit these attractions. Homeowners should never intentionally feed coyotes as it leads the animals to expect food from rather than fear humans.
Coyotes play a vital role in the ecological community, keeping populations of small animals and rodents in check in DuPage County ecosystems. Visit dupageforest.org for more information on living with coyotes and ways to keep pets safe.