Coyote mating season takes place in Kentucky through early March. Experts said people should expect to see more of the wild canines as they look to reproduce.
John Cox, Associate Professor of Wildlife and Conservation Biology at the University of Kentucky, said people should exercise caution as coyotes search for mates.
“Coyotes, especially males, might be just a little bit bolder than they would during other times of the year so it’s possible that they may get a little bit closer to peoples’ houses or farms in pursuit of mates, and in some cases, they may be a just little bit more aggressive,” said Cox.
Cox also said drivers should be aware of increased road crossings as the animals travel to find mates. He said coyotes may also come near homes during the mating season.
“Things that attract them are pet foods, small pets, sometimes if, for example, if cattle die and they are disposed of fairly close to residences that may pull those animals in to scavenge those carcasses,” said Cox.
Cox said coyotes can be a danger to pets and small animals. He said owners should limit their animal’s exposure to coyotes whenever possible and keep an eye out if coyotes are spotted or heard in the area. He went on to say the wild canines can sometimes see domestic animals as prey animals or even competitors for resources. Cox noted coyote attacks on humans are rare and happen far less often than domesticated dog attacks.