Coyotes in Texas (Pictures and Info)

Coyotes started expanding dramatically in the early 1900s’ and could be found all over North America. They are pretty common in Texas, and adapting well to human expansion. In this article, we will discuss the coyotes in Texas including where they live, some troubled areas, dangers, and keeping you and your pets safe.

Coyotes in Texas

• Common name: Coyote
• Scientific name: Canis latrans
• Family: Canidae
• Length: 3 ft 3 in – 4 ft 5 in
• Weight: 15-44lbs
• Average lifespan: 10-14 yrs

Coyotes are pack animals, with a hierarchy similar to that of wolves. They are scavengers and eat almost anything they can find. Coyote coloring ranges from grayish brown to grayish red, with their underside being white. They are most active at dusk and dawn. Coyotes have a distinctive call, they yip and yap and make a yip like howls.

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Coyotes in North Texas

They have been a concern for Northern Texans in recent years. They are territorial and are particularly active and aggressive during mating season. Coyotes, however, do not typically attack humans. Locations like Frisco, where there were known attacks, were believed to be because of feeding whether it was knowingly or unknowingly. The Coyotes were drawn to this location because there was food. There have been problems all along this region, however. Dallas and Fort worth have also experienced seasonal difficulties with coyotes.

Coyotes in East Texas

The animals have been spotted and problematic for cities like Tyler, Longview, Marshall Texas, and many Eastern Texan locations.

Coyotes are well adapted and will live anywhere, and their population continues to grow, but they usually stay out of sight. Coyote sightings tend to become more frequent during reproduction season. They need extra food to support themselves and their young, so they will start looking for it in Suburban and even Urban areas.

Coyotes in Central Texas

Coyotes are found all over Texas, including Austin, Travis, and surrounding locations. Coyote attacks on humans are rare, and local Texan farmers do keep the population in check. Despite this, Coyotes are still found all over Central Texas. The government wants you to be prepared and know what to do if you come across coyotes.

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Keep yourself and your pets safe.

There are a few things Texans can do to keep themselves and their pets safe. Make sure all food or leftover pet food has been picked up and disposed of properly. Know when Coyotes are most active, at dusk and dawn. Make sure to keep your pets on leashes at all times. Check for secluded spots around your house that could be home to a coyote and close it off. Teach your children what a coyote looks like, and not to approach or run from them but walk away slowly.

Hazing is a process to chase off Coyotes, using methods like noise makers such as air horns as a deterrent. Yelling and waving your arms, throwing non-food items, like small pebbles at the coyote will also help to deter one from approaching or coming back in the future. Cycle through different methods so the coyotes won’t become desensitized.

Although this information can keep you safe and chase off coyotes. It is important to note that coyotes that are regularly around humans will not be afraid. They will not act normal and may approach regardless of what you are doing. If you notice this behavior, it is recommended you report it to your local government officials.

Learn more about how to keep coyotes away from your home.

Coyote Facts and FAQs

Are Texas Coyotes dangerous?

Coyotes rarely attack humans, but the danger is still there.

You can find what the Texas parks and wildlife department recommends here

Is it illegal to kill coyotes in Texas?

It is legal to hunt coyotes in Texas all year long.

Are coyotes invasive to Texas?

Coyotes while expanding, are not an invasive species to Texas. Farmers, hunters, and the allowance to kill these animals all year-round has kept the population from growing out of control.

Are there other ways to deter a Coyote from coming on to my property?  

A few methods that might work to deter Coyotes are:

• Motion lighting and sprinkler systems
• Smell deterrents such as Cayenne pepper, vinegar, ammonia-soaked rags.
• Strobe lights and noises set on a timer
• Electronic device that emits cougar sounds

Can you keep a coyote as a pet?

To own or care for coyotes in any way, you will need a permit to do so. Get in contact with your local government agency to find the next steps you will need to take.