Coyote Quick Facts

Where do coyotes live?

Coyotes are found throughout the Pacific Northwest, from downtown Tacoma to the smallest suburb. They are extremely adaptable and can thrive in any neighborhood that provides their basic needs.

Residential areas provide good habitat for coyotes. They find plentiful food in the mice, rabbits and raccoons that are drawn to yards and gardens. Parks, trails and natural areas offer water, shelter and the space coyotes need to live and raise their families.

What do they eat?

Coyotes are hunters and scavengers – they eat mostly natural wild foods like small animals, grass, nuts and berries. But they can also eat domestic pets and human food.

When do they hunt?

Coyotes can hunt during the day but mostly hunt and forage at dawn, dusk and at night.

Do coyotes pose a risk to people?

Although naturally curious, coyotes are usually timid animals and normally flee if confronted. As coyotes adapt to the presence of humans, some individuals lose their natural fear of us. Coyote attacks on humans are rare. In most cases, attacks occur as a result of people feeding coyotes.

If you encounter a coyote that is actively aggressive or bites a person, contact your local Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife office.

Do coyotes pose a risk to pets?

It can be difficult to accept, but pets can be seen as a food source by coyotes. Large dogs may be seen as a threat or possible mate. Coyotes have taken pets from backyards, open spaces and even right off the leash. Reduce risk by closely supervising your pets or keeping them indoors. Visit our Protecting Pets page to learn more.

Can we make them leave?

Populations fluctuate, but coyotes probably won’t leave. Eradication programs in cities have proven to be expensive failures. Community members can work together to instill a healthy and natural fear of humans back into coyotes—for their safety and ours. Coyotes are quick learners and consistent negative experiences can teach them to avoid people.

If you feel that coyotes in your neighborhood are displaying aggressive behaviors, urban coyote experts can provide a free assessment of your situation. Call the USDA state office at (360) 753-9884.

Do coyotes have rabies?

Most coyotes do NOT have rabies but can carry the disease, as can raccoons, weasels and other urban carnivores. This is another reason to keep your pets away from them and be sure their vaccinations are up to date.

I’ve seen a coyote that looks sick. What can I do?

Unfortunately, coyotes sometimes suffer from diseases or parasites including mange, canine distemper and canine parvovirus and may appear thin and in poor health. These conditions are rarely a risk to humans, but could be a risk to domestic dogs. While we can’t help sick coyotes, you can protect your pets from diseases by keeping them vaccinated.

Can I remove a problem coyote?

A homeowner or renter may kill or trap a coyote or hire a trapper to perform this service if a coyote is damaging crops or domestic animals (RCW 77.36.030). Check with your county and/or local jurisdiction for local restrictions. However, there are many steps you can take to discourage coyotes from your property. Visit our Discouraging Coyotes page to learn more.