Should I Feed an Injured Coyote? A Wildlife Expert’s Guide
Absolutely not. Feeding an injured coyote, while seemingly compassionate, can be detrimental to both the animal and the surrounding community; therefore, you should not feed an injured coyote. Contacting local wildlife authorities is the most responsible and ethical course of action.
The Complexities of Coyote Encounters
Coyotes are increasingly common in urban and suburban environments. While many encounters are harmless, the presence of an injured animal raises concerns about safety, disease transmission, and the well-being of the coyote itself. Understanding the dynamics of these interactions is crucial before considering any action, including feeding. A well-intentioned but misinformed approach can do more harm than good.
Why Feeding an Injured Coyote Is a Bad Idea
Providing food to an injured coyote may seem like a kind gesture, but it carries significant risks:
- Dependency: Coyotes are naturally skilled hunters. Feeding them can lead to dependence on humans, reducing their ability to find food on their own.
- Habituation: Regular feeding can cause coyotes to lose their fear of humans. This habituation can lead to bolder behavior, including approaching people for food or even becoming aggressive, especially during breeding season or when protecting pups.
- Public Safety: Coyotes that lose their fear of humans pose a threat to pets and, in rare cases, to people, especially small children.
- Disease Transmission: Feeding can attract multiple coyotes to a single location, increasing the risk of disease transmission within the coyote population and potentially to domestic animals.
- Unnatural Population Growth: Artificial feeding can artificially inflate local coyote populations beyond what the natural environment can support sustainably, leading to increased competition for resources and potential conflicts.
- Changing Natural Behavior: Feeding can change coyotes from nocturnal animals to diurnal (daytime) animals, leading to more interaction with humans during the day.
The Right Course of Action: Contacting Professionals
Instead of directly intervening, the most responsible course of action when encountering an injured coyote is to contact local wildlife authorities. These agencies have the expertise and resources to assess the animal’s condition and determine the best course of action, which might include:
- Observation: Monitoring the coyote’s behavior and condition from a safe distance.
- Capture and Rehabilitation: Safely capturing the coyote and transporting it to a licensed wildlife rehabilitation facility.
- Euthanasia: In cases where the injury is severe and the coyote’s chances of recovery are minimal, humane euthanasia may be the most compassionate option.
Always prioritize your safety and the safety of others. Never approach or attempt to handle an injured coyote yourself.
Preventing Future Conflicts: Coexistence Strategies
Creating a harmonious relationship with local wildlife like coyotes involves preventing conflicts before they arise. Key strategies include:
- Secure Garbage: Store trash in tightly sealed containers to prevent coyotes from accessing food scraps.
- Feed Pets Indoors: Avoid leaving pet food outside, as this can attract coyotes and other wildlife.
- Clear Brush: Remove brush and dense vegetation around your property to eliminate potential hiding places for coyotes.
- Supervise Pets: Keep pets, especially small dogs and cats, indoors or on a leash when outside.
- Educate Neighbors: Share information about responsible wildlife interactions with your neighbors to create a community-wide approach.
- Motion-Activated Lights/Sprinklers: These can deter coyotes from entering your property.
- Hazing Techniques: If you encounter a coyote acting unafraid, make loud noises, wave your arms, or spray it with a hose to reinforce its fear of humans.
Legal Ramifications
In many jurisdictions, feeding wildlife, including coyotes, is illegal and can result in fines. These laws are in place to protect both the animals and the public. Check your local regulations before considering any action that could be interpreted as feeding.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will the injured coyote starve if I don’t feed it?
Coyotes are resourceful hunters and scavengers. While an injury might make hunting more difficult, they are often able to find alternative food sources. Wildlife rehabilitators are better equipped to provide specialized care if the injury is severe. Therefore, should I feed an injured coyote? The answer is still no.
What if the coyote is clearly suffering?
Witnessing an animal in distress is upsetting. However, your well-intentioned actions could ultimately prolong its suffering or create further problems. The most compassionate approach is to contact wildlife professionals who can assess the situation and provide appropriate care or humane euthanasia if necessary.
I live in a rural area and wildlife services are far away. What should I do?
Even in rural areas, contacting local animal control or the Department of Natural Resources is the first step. They may have contacts or resources available in your area that you are unaware of. Describe the coyote’s condition as accurately as possible.
Isn’t it cruel to let an injured animal suffer?
While it’s natural to feel empathy for an injured animal, providing food isn’t necessarily the kindest act. It can delay professional intervention and have negative long-term consequences. Wildlife professionals are trained to assess suffering and make humane decisions.
What if the coyote approaches me looking for food?
This likely indicates the coyote has already been habituated to humans. Do not feed it. Instead, make yourself appear large and intimidating, make loud noises, and back away slowly. Report the incident to local wildlife authorities. Remember, should I feed an injured coyote? No, because doing so reinforces habituation.
How can I tell if a coyote is truly injured and not just resting?
Signs of injury can include limping, visible wounds, difficulty moving, or unusual behavior. However, it’s best to err on the side of caution and contact professionals rather than attempting to diagnose the situation yourself. Observe from a safe distance with binoculars, if possible.
Will wildlife rehabilitators always try to save the coyote?
Wildlife rehabilitators prioritize the animal’s well-being. If the injury is too severe or the coyote is unable to be rehabilitated for release back into the wild, humane euthanasia may be the most ethical option. They prioritize the animal’s quality of life.
What if I have small children or pets in the area?
The presence of an injured coyote near children or pets increases the risk of conflict. Contact wildlife authorities immediately and take extra precautions to protect your family and animals. Keep pets indoors and supervise children closely when outdoors.
Are there any situations where feeding a wild animal is acceptable?
Generally, feeding wild animals is discouraged. However, licensed wildlife rehabilitators may feed injured animals under their care as part of a structured rehabilitation program. This is different from the general public feeding wild animals in their natural habitat.
What if I’m afraid of getting fined for reporting a potentially injured coyote?
Reporting a potentially injured animal is unlikely to result in a fine. The fines are typically associated with intentionally feeding wildlife. Your concern for the animal’s welfare is a responsible action.
How long can a coyote survive with an injury?
Survival depends on the severity of the injury, the coyote’s overall health, and the availability of food. Without intervention, a severely injured coyote may suffer for days or weeks. Prompt professional assessment is crucial. Therefore, should I feed an injured coyote to help it survive? No, contact a professional instead.
What are some other resources I can consult for more information?
Your local Department of Natural Resources, humane societies, and wildlife rehabilitation centers are excellent sources of information. Online resources from reputable wildlife organizations can also provide valuable guidance.