Coyotes are periodically sighted in the Reservation, some are as large as a German shepherd. Keep in mind you and the coyote are in a natural habitat and coyotes tend to avoid humans as much as possible. While they might stop to observe you (like you are observing it!) keep in mind the following pointers to stay safe and enjoy such a rare sighting.

If a coyote is approaching, here’s what to do.

First and foremost, remain calm, keep eye contact, and slowly back away while leaving the area. Never run from a coyote, Running may trigger its predatory response and give it a reason to chase you. If you have any personal alarm devices, such as a whistle, bell, or phone alarm, use them to scare the coyote.

  • Stop and stand still
  • Make yourself big, loud and assertive
  • Slowly back away
  • NEVER turn your back and run

Your goal is to deter the coyote from approaching. In the rare case that the coyote decides to continue to approach, throw rocks or sticks. Your goal isn’t to injure them, simply to scare them.

  • Coyotes may try to “escort” you out of an area to protect their pups or food sources when you encounter them on a trail. Humans may perceive this behavior as stalking, which is usually not the case.
  • Do not allow a coyote to get in between you and your pet or child; keep children close to you.
  • Don’t run away or turn your back on a coyote.
  • Keep dogs on short leashes; a leash no longer than six feet is recommended.
  • Carry noisemakers, such as whistles and horns, to scare away coyotes.
  • Yell, clap hands, blow a whistle and try to make yourself look larger if you have a close encounter with a coyote.
  • If a coyote is becoming problematic and threatening (which is very rarely the case), and yelling and waving don’t work, the Humane Society suggests throwing sticks, small rocks or tennis balls “toward, but not at,” the coyote.
  • Never feed coyotes as it is illegal.

These guidelines have been compiled from the following resources: