(5-27-26) There has been an increase in coyote sightings in the City of Findlay. The Ohio Division of Wildlife has been consulted and has provided the following guidance:

We regularly receive questions from Ohioans about coyotes, particularly when sightings become more noticeable in urban areas. To help address those questions, we’re providing the information below. While these sightings may be surprising to some, they are not unusual. Coyotes are highly adaptable and commonly live in and around urban and suburban areas throughout Ohio, including Findlay. Coyote populations are stable across Ohio.

Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive. You can also find more information about coyotes on our website here: http://ohiodnr.gov/discover-and-learn/animals/mammals/coyote.

What should I do if I see a coyote?

• Seeing a coyote—even in a neighborhood—is generally normal and not cause for alarm. Coyotes are naturally wary of people and typically keep their distance. If you see one, simply observe from afar and allow it space to move on. Coyotes are naturally curious and will observe their environment to assess dangers. Because of this, it is not unusual for a coyote to watch people from afar. In this situation, they are not “stalking” or “hunting,” rather, they are assessing their environment.

• If a coyote lingers or appears too comfortable, you can use hazing techniques to encourage it to leave. This includes waving your arms, shouting, or making loud noises such as banging pots and pans together. This helps reinforce the animal’s natural fear of humans.

• Never approach a coyote

• Residents can also reduce attractants by securing trash, removing outdoor pet food, and cleaning up fallen birdseed, which can draw rodents—and in turn, coyotes.

Are coyotes dangerous to humans?

Coyotes rarely pose a threat to people. They are very fearful of humans and keep their distance. Ohio has a long history of coexistence with coyotes, and conflicts are extremely uncommon. Coyotes generally avoid humans and prefer to remain unseen. Most reported sightings are simply animals passing through the area.

Are coyotes dangerous to pets?

Coyotes can view small pets as prey or as competitors, which is why supervision is important. Coyotes may view other dogs as a possible territory threat, whereas cats could be viewed as a potential food source. Pet conflicts are also rare and are easily preventable.

• Keep cats indoors—this is also very important for the environment. Outdoor cats are the top threat to bird mortality.

• Supervise dogs when outside, especially at dawn and dusk.

• Look for coyotes in your yard or adjacent area before letting your dog outside, especially at dawn and dusk.

• Keep pets close and use a leash. Accompanying your pet outside will scare off coyotes because they are afraid of people.

• Remove attractants around the yard to reduce the likelihood of an encounter.