Frisky Coyotes In MA May Cause Conflict With Humans, Pets

MASSACHUSETTS — Residents and pets across Massachusetts have had plenty of conflicts with members of the state's wily canine population in recent months.

There was the Stoneham woman accosted by one in her driveway in October. Two separate incidents in Hopkinton and Milford where dogs were attacked around the same time. A pair of coyotes seen milling around in a Brighton backyard in November. There have been coyote sightings in Peabody and warnings in North Andover. Don't forget the sharpshooters Nahant hired.

And with the commencement of coyote meeting season late last month, it's possible state residents could see more coyote action.

According to MassWildlife, the coyote mating season will last through March, a period when coyotes will be "very active" both seeking mates and defending what they perceive as their territory. There are an estimated 12,000 coyotes living in the state, including in the Boston area. Wildlife officials say the mere presence of a coyote likely isn't a cause for concern, but are also offering these tips to keep interactions from escalating:

• Pets, especially small cats and dogs, should always be closely supervised while outside in winter, and dogs should always be leashed. Even medium and large dogs can spark conflict because coyotes "can’t distinguish your dog from an intruding coyote," MassWildlife said.
• Like black bears, coyotes are "opportunistic omnivores" and may enter backyards to feast on garbage left outside, or even by bird feed. And don't forget to secure your backyard chicken pens.
• Coyotes that depend on human food sources may become more bold. And while they are typically afraid of humans, MassWildlife recommends hazing the animals aggressively if you see one. That can include yelling, throwing small objects at them or even spraying a hose in their direction. The goal is to scare them without causing physical harm.

State officials say violent coyote-human encounters are extremely rare. But any resident concerned about a coyote's behavior should contact MassWildlife.