Lake County Gazette

If coyotes are frequently visiting your property and not fleeing upon sighting humans, it is advisable to employ hazing techniques to deter their presence. Ignoring them can diminish their fear of people.

According to experts, altering human and domestic animal use of an area is often more feasible than attempting to capture the coyotes. Coyote population reduction, or removing some or all coyotes from an area, is typically unrealistic and always temporary. Removal requires hiring a nuisance wildlife control operator licensed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). Approved removals usually involve cage traps or padded foot-hold traps, with the animals being humanely euthanized rather than relocated. More information can be found at the IDNR Wildlife Illinois site at https://www.wildlifeillinois.org/sightings/coyote-in-my-neighborhood-or-yard/.

Hazing Techniques:

Crossing a Yard or Street

Coyotes are most commonly seen during mating season (January-March) and when juveniles leave the family pack (September-November). While normally fearful of people, they may occasionally be spotted crossing yards or streets, especially in residential areas near open spaces where they hunt natural prey. This behavior generally requires no response other than ensuring pets and children are secure and removing any potential food attractants.

Lounging in a Yard or Approaching/Following People

Coyotes are naturally timid and usually flee at the sight of humans. If they linger or approach, it’s time to begin “hazing.” This involves actions designed to scare coyotes away:

- Be as big and loud as possible without running or turning your back.

- Wave your arms, clap hands, and shout authoritatively.

- Make noise using pots and pans, air horns, or whistles.

- Throw small stones, sticks, tennis balls—aiming to scare not injure.

- Spray with a hose or squirt gun filled with water and vinegar.

- Shake or throw a “coyote shaker”—a soda can filled with pennies sealed with duct tape.

The effectiveness of hazing may diminish unless all food attractants are removed permanently. Sharing this information with neighbors can enhance its efficacy since collective efforts yield better results.

Hazing should never be attempted if the coyote is accompanied by pups or seems sick/injured; report such cases to local police.

Failing Response to Hazing

Some coyotes might freeze/stare or run short distances before stopping; continue hazing until they leave completely. If persistent hazing fails due to possible feeding nearby—it should be reported immediately.

Approaching Pets/Children

Small pets/children shouldn’t be left unattended; always walk dogs on leashes. Carry noisemakers/squirt guns for added safety measures while outdoors. Should a coyote approach—pick up pets/children then start hazing; back away slowly if necessary while continuing efforts until safe indoors if possible. Report any aggressive behavior promptly.

The Humane Society also offers guidelines for encountering coyotes safely.

For further assistance contact Riverwoods Police Chief Bruce Dayno.