MOORE COUNTY, Tenn. — Beginning in late January, Moore County folks might experience an increased number of coyote sightings as mating season begins. Mating activity will peak in February and continue through late March.
So, what’s coyote sexy time got to do with me, you might be thinking. This seasonal shift matters because the biology changes how they interact with humans — especially little humans — and pets.
Coyotes are normally crepuscular/nocturnal — meaning humans rarely see them outside of sunrise and sunset but during mating season they move more frequently and further to either find or guard mates. This can sometimes lead to claims that local populations are exploding, but that’s rarely true. It just means they are temporarily more active.
They also become more vocal during mating season with folks in the rural parts of Moore County and even urban areas hearing more howling, yipping, and group calls. It’s usually territory advertising or the coyote equivalent of making their new pair-bonding FB official. From a distance, three to four coyotes can sound like 20 but that’s rarely the case.
One mating season change that locals should be aware of is stronger territorial behavior. Coyotes become more defensive of territory and may attempt to nudge both people and dogs out of “their” area by following at a distance or standing and watching instead of fleeing. It’s especially important for those who walk or run outside in the early morning or late afternoons to be aware of, though it’s just a boundary-setting display. They rarely get aggressive.
The one exception is dogs, who coyotes interpret as competitors, threats, and sometimes potential mates depending on the size and breed — especially unneutered dogs. During mating season, small dogs and cats are at a higher risk if left unattended outside because they can be mistaken for a food source. Most negative encounters happen when small dogs are left off leash near woods, fields, or creek lines. Bird feeders can also attract them into your yard as well as open barbecue grills or edible garbage.
Human attacks are very rare but if you encounter a coyote, you should stand tall, make noise, maintain eye contact, and keep moving confidently. Like horses, coyotes can sense fear and you should never turn your back on one.
Coyotes are not a protected species in Tennessee, and can be hunted year-round. There is no bag limit. Coyotes are also not reservoir hosts of rabies in Tennessee. For more information about them, visit the Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency’s (TWRA) website by clicking here. •
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