Coyotes

Increased Coyote Sightings

Over the past few years, the number of coyote sightings has increased in Rosemount and the surrounding cities. Coyotes are most active from dusk to the early morning hours and in the hot summer weather.

Most coyotes are afraid of and avoid people. There have been no recorded coyote attacks on humans to date in Minnesota.

Coyotes’ primary food source is small to medium-sized mammals such as mice and skunks. Coyotes are known to be scavengers and opportunistic hunters and can raid garbage cans and kill domestic cats and dogs.

Tips to Living Alongside Coyotes

Here are a few important things to keep in mind about living with coyotes:

• Secure garbage containers, wildlife feeders, or any pet food that may be kept outside.
• Do not leave small pets outside unattended or unsupervised.
• Keep pets on a leash when walking in parks or wooded areas.
• Do not intentionally feed coyotes.
• Harass (by chasing, shouting aggressively, throwing nonfood items) coyotes that do not immediately run from people.
• City ordinance prohibits the discharge of any firearm within the city limits. Any aggressive coyote behavior should be reported to the Rosemount Police Department by calling 911.

Read more about dealing with urban coyotes at the websites of the Minnesota DNR and the Humane Society of the U.S.