Did you know that early fall through December is 'dispersal season' for coyotes on Anarchist? This means that the mature pups born earlier this year are either allowed to stay in their family's territory (as 'betas') or are driven out of the family pack. Both young males and females can be pushed out.
While dispersal can occur at any time of the year, it's most common in the fall/early winter. As the parents of the youngsters (the alpha pair) begin preparing for fall breeding season, they want to remove any possible challenges and competition for food out of the family pack.
Dispersal season is an incredibly difficult time for the young coyotes that are forced to leave and find their own way. While some will find mates and form packs of their own, others will wander as transients, seeking food and shelter wherever they can while trying to avoid the territories of other packs and other trouble. These youngsters will be more curious and less cautious of people than adult coyotes, so you may see them close to your home or yard.
We can all do our part to avoid negative interactions with coyotes this fall and winter. Remember to:
Always keep your dog on a leash and under control. Breeding pairs can be very territorial at this time of year and a roaming dog could be seen as a threat.
Keep cats indoors, especially at night. A free-range cat is an easy target for coyotes and other predators.
Ensure attractants like bird seed, pet and livestock feed and compost are properly secured. If not, it's likely mice and other rodents will be attracted to this easy and convenient food source, which in turn could attract coyotes to your yard.
Pick up after your dog as canine feces can act as an attractant for coyotes.
If you encounter a coyote while out in your yard or on a walk, make lots of noise, wave your arms, and keep dogs and small children close. If you can, walk in the opposite direction.
Coyotes sometimes engage in behavior called 'escorting' to guide people and dogs away from their territory. This is usually a normal and non-threatening behavior.
Never feed wildlife or let your dogs chase coyotes or other wildlife. The Provincial Wildlife Act considers it an offense to attract and/or feed wildlife (or chase wildlife) such as bears, coyotes, cougars and wolves. Doing so can result in significant fines or jail time.
If you encounter a coyote that is acting aggressively, please contact the BC Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-RAPP (7277).
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