Recommended Coyote Mitigation Techniques for Homeowners

NOTE: In regard to coyote mitigation methods, make sure to confirm with your HOA if the method you have chosen is allowed in the community based on HOA rules. Zoning regulations should also be checked with the Broomfield Community Development for concepts such as fence extensions with coyote rollers.

Coyotes are also extremely adaptable so choose a couple of different deterrent methods. It is recommended that the deterrent method be changed every two weeks or so to prevent habituation.

First, use Broomfield’s yard audit checklist to determine if there is anything that can be done to make the yard itself less attractive to coyotes. Then see if there are any other attractants that can be limited. Think of it as limiting the available food, water, or shelter. For example:

• Never feed coyotes! Report neighbors who are feeding to Colorado Parks and Wildlife 
• Unsecured compost, trash, or food scraps
• Remove pet waste, fallen fruit or bird feeder seed promptly 
• Keep pet food and water bowls inside
• Burn food off barbeque grills and clean after each use
• Do not feed the wildlife! this can cause habituation, disease and human coyote conflict
• Remove any fallen fruit or birdseed from the yard as these are attractants for coyotes
• Dogs and cats allowed to roam free, and/or female dogs in heat
• Seal-up openings under porches, decks, and sheds with welded wire that is buried at least 18 inches below the ground. 
• Shrubs, woodpiles, decks, large trees with branches that reach the ground or any other structure that can provide cover or be used as a den
• Trim vegetation and mow tall grass; remove or thin brush and rubbage piles so as to eliminate cover for coyotes and their prey 

Deterrents

• Using a motion detector sprinkler system that shoots a three second blast of water when motion is sensed
• Using radios, motion lighting,,or odor deterrents (such as cayenne pepper or vinegar in water guns or balloons, etc)
• Using ammonia-soaked rags or applying ammonia to an area with a squirt bottle. Must be re-applied over time/after rain
• Spraying human scent (cologne/perfume). Must be re-applied over time/after rain
• Having motion-activated flood lights
• Adding fence extensions (coyote rollers) as long as this is allowed by your HOA and zoning

No deterrent method will be 100% effective but by following best practices, using a variety of methods frequently will lead to the best outcome. Please know that coyote coexistence is a community wide effort. Encourage your HOA to share coyote information and incidents with residents if they occur. Act as a resource and teach your neighbors to follow these tips and best practices too!