Coyote Safety Kit

Be prepared, not scared.

In the rare event that you have an encounter with a coyote, it is best to have the knowledge and equipment to safely deal with the situation.

Assemble these items to create your own coyote safety kit.

Noise Makers

Noise makers can help announce your presence and be used to haze a coyote in the event that an encounter occurs. Different tools are used for different effects.

  • Bear bell- a constant jingle to announce your presence to any wildlife in the area.

  • Air horns- a sudden and loud sound meant to startle a coyote if approached. We recommend air horns that you power with your breath and not compressed air.

  • Whistle- a sharp, high pitch sound meant to annoy a coyote if approached. It can also be used to alert others in the area that you may need help.

  • Super-duper Coyote Spooker - Upcycle an aluminum can filled with pennies or rocks to startle a coyote when shaken or, as a last resort, throw at the coyote if it approaches.

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Visual Deterrents

Coyotes are naturally timid and tend to avoid novel objects and motion. Move visual deterrents regularly so a coyote does not become conditioned to them.

  • Bird tape- reflective tape that moves easily in the wind. Attach to a fence, play structure or ground stake placed in your yard.

  • Headlamp or flashlight- If you are out at night, it is good to carry a flashlight or headlamp. You can use it to startle a coyote by waving it around or using a strobe setting if available.

Knowledge

The best way to stay safe around coyotes is to arm yourself with knowledge about preventing conflict and how to react in the rare occasion of an encounter.

Please visit Discouraging Coyotes or download our handout on coyote safety.

Special thanks to Allyson Halm, New Canaan, Connecticut animal control officer, for sharing information on developing coyote safety kits.