On December 4, 2004, the Austin American Statesman featured an informative article on coyotes. Coyotes are wild by nature but they are becoming more brazen.

The article listed the following things you can do to keep coyotes wild:
1. Do not feed coyotes, deer or other wildlife.
2. Eliminate water sources.
3. Position bird feeders so that coyotes can't get to them.
4. Do not discard edible garbage where coyotes can get to it.
5. Secure garbage containers and eliminate garbage odors.
6. Feed pets indoors whenever possible and store pet food inside.
7. Trim and clean, near ground level, any shrubbery that provides cover for coyotes or prey.
8. Don't leave small children unattended outside if coyotes have been frequenting the area.
9. Don't allow pets to run free.
10. If you start seeing coyotes around your home or property, chase them away by shouting, making loud noises or throwing rocks.
11. If you see a coyote, call 311 so authorities can keep track of reports!

This article was written by Al Blunt and appeared in the December 2004 Volente Voice newsletter.

For a description, see The Mammals of Texas - Online Edition, which is the source of this photo.