Don’t be surprised to see a coyote in your backyard — especially if you live in Fort Lauderdale’s exclusive Rio Vista neighborhood.
Police Chief Patrick Lynn says the police department has taken only three calls about coyote sightings in the past six months.
The number is surprisingly low considering all the social media posts showing coyotes lounging in backyards, swimming across rivers, climbing seawalls and even pooping on outdoor patios.
Commissioner Warren Sturman, whose district includes Rio Vista, says he’s seen so many photos and videos posted on social media that he requested a presentation from an expert with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Sturman says a coyote has visited his yard several times in the past couple weeks, easily scaling the seawall and helping himself to Muscovy duck eggs.
“Trapping and removing them is not the answer,” Sturman said. “They mate for life. If you remove one, they’ll find a new spouse and have an even bigger litter. So that’s not the answer.”
Jayne Johnston, a biologist with the agency, gave tips during a recent City Hall meeting on how we can coexist with coyotes roaming the urban landscape.
“We still get calls about coyotes statewide,” she said. “They thrive in urban areas. They eat anything and everything — garbage, pet food, fallen fruit. They are highly intelligent and will not go into a trap.”
Coyotes are native to North America and roamed Florida until about 10,000 years ago.
They returned to the state more than 40 years ago after expanding their range from western states. Now they can be found in every county in the state.
Never run from a coyote, experts say. They can run up to 43 mph and are more likely to chase you if you run.
Keep your cats and dogs inside. Dogs should be walked on a leash, especially at dawn and dusk when coyotes are most active.
Do not leave pet food outside and make sure your garbage can is securely shut.
Typically shy and elusive, coyotes tend to retreat if challenged. But if a coyote comes toward you or your pet, shout and yell and try waving your arms in the air. Then pick up your pet and back away from the coyote slowly.
You can also throw sticks or stones near the coyote to scare it away, but don’t try to hit the animal. If injured, coyotes are more likely to defend themselves.
If you do notice unusual behavior, including a coyote chasing joggers or attacking leashed pets, you can report it to the state’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404-3922 if you need immediate assistance. If not, call 561-625-5122 on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Susannah Bryan can be reached at or on Twitter @Susannah_Bryan
