Living with Coyotes
Living alongside wildlife in Colorado is part of what makes living here unique.
Give the wildlife you encounter here respect and space.
Avoiding confrontations is the best, approach when possible.
Be responsible with your presence, your pets, your pet's food, and your trash.
Teach your children to be respectful as well.
Never harass, taunt, or chase any of the wild animals who make their home here; including coyotes, Canada Goose, rabbits, squirrels, woodpeckers, bats and bees.
Be aware that when starving, desperate, or just too comfortable, coyotes have entered homes through dog doors. Use electronic recognition collar/door sets
and/or secure your doors whenever possible.
For more information, go to the Colorado Parks & Wildlife website.
Text below provided by Westminster Police Dept via NextDoor 19Jan2018
Coyotes
Typically spring time is breeding season for coyotes, and they are very active throughout day and evening hours. With the warmer weather, we are seeing some earlier activity this year, so the City of Westminster would like to remind residents of the dangers of coyotes.
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NEVER feed a coyote. Coyotes are attracted to neighborhoods due to the availability of garbage, pet food,
and even pets, which coyotes see as prey.
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Reduce the risk to your pet by following these guidelines:
Cat owners: The only way to guarantee your cat’s safety is to keep it indoors.
Dog owners: Always supervise your pet outside, especially at dawn and dusk
• Keep your dog on a short leash while recreating — avoid retractable leashes
• Do not allow your dog to play or interact with a coyote
• If possible, pick up your dog when coyotes are visible
• Avoid known or potential den sites and thick vegetation
• Like domestic dogs, coyotes will defend their territory and their young
• If you must leave your dog outside, secure it in a fully enclosed kennel.
Although naturally curious, coyotes are usually timid animals and normally run away if confronted.
Coyote attacks on humans are rare. If you have concerns about encountering a coyote, you may want to keep a deterrent handy.
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Deterrents can include:
• rocks
• pots and pans
• vinegar in a water gun
• air horns
• repellent spray
Under Westminster Municipal Code 6-2-9 Firearms:
(A) It shall be unlawful for any person to intentionally, knowingly or recklessly discharge firearms, deadly weapons or destructive devices of any kind or description within the limits of the city; provided, however, that this shall not apply to police officers in the discharge of their duties.
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Do what you can to discourage a coyote’s approach:
• Be as big and loud as possible
• Wave your arms, clap and throw objects at the coyote
• Shout in a loud and authoritative voice
• Do not run or turn your back on the coyote
• Face the coyote and back away slowly
If you witness a coyote attack or are attacked by one, please call 911.