What’s in your yard?

Do you place your trash in open containers outside? If your dog lives in the backyard, do you keep their food bowl filled with food all the time? These are a few questions you have to consider in protecting your property from attracting coyotes.

Here are some helpful tips to "coyote-proof" your yard:

• Eliminate garbage: Garbage that’s easily accessible outside can attract coyotes to visit your property. Make sure to store garbage in secure containers. Also, place your trash out during the daytime hours. Doing this reduces the threat of encountering a coyote face-to-face.
• Eliminate outside food sources: Remove pet food containers each evening, and bring them indoors. Even when a container is empty, a coyote’s sense of smell can pick up food residue and follow the scent to your property. Water can be just as enticing as food for coyotes in dry weather. Remove any pet water bowls and other items that can collect water. Also, pick up any fruit that has fallen from trees and rake areas around bird feeders.
• Tell your neighbors: Encourage your neighbors to follow these simple steps too. With everyone's participation, coyotes will be less-attracted to the entire area.