Coyotes

[93legendti]

A neighbor spotted a few coyotes last month in her backyard.
I guess I am not surprised, because we often see deer out in the open and even in the street.

I am wondering- what I can carry with me while biking to convince any coyote I come across that I am not prey? Pepper spray? One of those loud hand held horns?
Thanks.

[chuckred]

A neighbor spotted a few coyotes last month in her backyard.
I guess I am not surprised, because we often see deer out in the open and even in the street.

I am wondering- what I can carry with me while biking to convince any coyote I come across that I am not prey? Pepper spray? One of those loud hand held horns?
Thanks.

I've heard about some coyote-wolf hybreds in the east that might attack a human, but your basic coyote is more interested in eating a maltese or rabbit than trying to chase down a human on a bike.

[sjbraun]

tell them what you think about the President. I can guarantee they'll run for the hills. :beer:

[93legendti]

I've heard about some coyote-wolf hybreds in the east that might attack a human, but your basic coyote is more interested in eating a maltese or rabbit than trying to chase down a human on a bike.
I've read about the eastern (hybrid) coyotes...I'm hoping these are the western variety.

[Wilkinson4]

Last year during a lunch time ride I came across a cyclist who was pulled off to the side of the road. For you Colorado folks, down by 470 and I-25.

Anyway, he said he had just been attacked by a Coyote and sure enough the guy had a bite mark right on his thigh!!! He was riding on that path down by Meridian Business Park and he said it just jumped out and bit him.

I was skeptical until I saw the blood and bite mark. I always wondered if he had to get rabies shots after that. Ot how he felt when the moon was full.

Never heard anything like that before. Squirrels yes, but Coyotes?

mIKe

[Blue Jays]

You represent too much of a threat when they could just as easily find a rabbit, a squirrel, or something else that might not clobber them with a bicycle or framepump!

[BengeBoy]

Paint a tunnel opening on the side of a rock and they'll run right into it.

Saw it on a cartoon once.

[tylercheung]

i was going to say, that's just incentive to pedal faster, but bengeboy's idea is better...

[Marcusaurelius]

Coyotes are small and timid. I met one walking down an alley a couple of months ago. It ran away once I got close to it. I wouldn't worry about a coyote unless I was smaller than a coyote.

[Kirk007]

coyote less risk than a dog. They're not habituated to chase cars and cycles, but pepper spray is probably as good as any if you want something for peace of mind.

[Larry]

Paint a tunnel opening on the side of a rock and they'll run right into it.

Saw it on a cartoon once.

Meep! Meep! Pretend you are the Roadrunner..... and leave him in the dust.

Or..... before the coyote attacks..... get off your bike and dare the coyote to cross the line between you and him. If he crosses, throw the bike at him......
then stomp him into the ground.

[GuyGadois]

Paint a tunnel opening on the side of a rock and they'll run right into it.

Saw it on a cartoon once.

Awesome!

I am more worried about deer. I broke up a deer party today screaming downhill, around a corner and zipped right through the middle of them. That could have been a sucky ride.

Guy

[shinomaster]

Bring a can of Spam. They will either eat the Spam or run far away. Either way you will be safe.

[Louis]

In the grand scheme of things I have to believe that cars are a much greater threat than coyotes.

(Unless it's an Eastern Liberal Coyote - I'd stay away from them, they're the worst kind.) ;)

[scrooge]

I wish I hadn't read that...I came across a pack of them running over a ridge while mountain biking a while back. It wouldn't have occurred to me to be concerned--until now.

Last year during a lunch time ride I came across a cyclist who was pulled off to the side of the road. For you Colorado folks, down by 470 and I-25.

Anyway, he said he had just been attacked by a Coyote and sure enough the guy had a bite mark right on his thigh!!! He was riding on that path down by Meridian Business Park and he said it just jumped out and bit him.

I was skeptical until I saw the blood and bite mark. I always wondered if he had to get rabies shots after that. Ot how he felt when the moon was full.

Never heard anything like that before. Squirrels yes, but Coyotes?

mIKe

[Kevan]

Contact Acme. They've got all kinds of stuff that might help.

[jpw]

I watched the film Wolf last night, the one with Jack Nicholson and Michelle Pfeiffer. He was bitten, and morphed into a wolf. I wonder what being a coyote would be like?

Deer are smart. Came across a line of them while riding. I stopped, they stopped, major eye contact, a stand off, and then I looked over my shoulder just for a fraction of a second and they were off, prancing along like a Christmas card scene. These kind of encounters are certainly a riding plus.

[William]

Get a rabies shot if you get bit. Normally they will bolt before you get close to them. We had a Raccoon here last year that had all the signs of rabies and the local PD came by and took it out. They took it in for testing. A couple of days ago I came across a Fox on my way into work. You rarely see them, and when you do it's normally a flash and they're off into the woods. This guy wasn't afraid of my truck at all when I slowed down and stopped. He just looked at me stumbled around a bit and sat down. He was acting similar to the way the Raccoon did.

Don't take chances.

Pepper spray can work.



William

[pjmsj21]

I was out riding a couple of years ago and encountered a coyote as it was crossing the road. I was moving pretty quickly and we both had to instantly determine which way we were each going to go to avoid a colision and unlike squirels or racoons, he kept going across the road and I ducked below him. I would have absolutely no concerns about any kind of aggression.

Pat Mc

[BumbleBeeDave]

. . . . coyotes are timid and will run from you. Deer are just stupid and will run right into you. One came real close to clocking Smiley and Flyhest a couple of years ago at owner's weekend while we were riding through the Saratoga Battlefield Park.

BBD

[Ray]

I grew up around coyotes and ordinarily would echo the responses here - nothing to worry about. But if you've got a coyote hungry enough to go all the way to MICHIGAN for food, I'd have to figure all bets are off. They don't usually get anywhere near that far north or east I don't think.

Then again, maybe its just global warming, in which case you should get used to it. :cool:

-Ray

[Joellogicman]

Mostly they ran away. One looked at me for a while longer than I would have liked, then ran away as well.

Dogs are a menace around my dad's house. I use pepper spray on them. I imagine it would work as well with a coyote. In fact I believe campers in Northern Michigan carry a variation of pepper spray in case black bears get to persistent.

[Joellogicman]

I grew up around coyotes and ordinarily would echo the responses here - nothing to worry about. But if you've got a coyote hungry enough to go all the way to MICHIGAN for food, I'd have to figure all bets are off. They don't usually get anywhere near that far north or east I don't think.

Then again, maybe its just global warming, in which case you should get used to it. :cool:

-Ray

But there is some truth in what you say.

Coyotes are recent migrants to the upper Midwest. Europeans killed off most of the wolves, fox, mink, wolverines and mountain lions. Subsequent land use changes (and reduced interest in trapping and hunting) have lead to a huge proliferation of geese, deer, rabbit, and rodents.

In the past a coyote straying into the upper Midwest probably left as fast as it could. Now they are taking up residence. Unless wolves and mountain lions reclaim the area, I think the Coyotes are here to stay.

[veloduffer]

In general coyotes try to shy from humans. But if they have access to food near homes (garbage) or people feed them, they will overcome that fear and can become agressive. Also, they sometimes move in packs, which should also make one wary.

Coyotes having been moving into all areas of the country, even LA. They are very smart and adaptable, and can and will eat about anything (bugs, plant life).

[rockdude]

Wildlife (coyotes, foxes, Lion, bear) do not want contact with humans. The chances are very slim of any encounter. Be a man and don't worry.

[Ozz]

Wildlife (coyotes, foxes, Lion, bear) do not want contact with humans. The chances are very slim of any encounter. Be a man and do worry.
they are also mostly noturnal, so unless you ride at night you probably won't encounter any.

:beer:

[93legendti]

In general coyotes try to shy from humans. But if they have access to food near homes (garbage) or people feed them, they will overcome that fear and can become agressive. Also, they sometimes move in packs, which should also make one wary.

Coyotes having been moving into all areas of the country, even LA. They are very smart and adaptable, and can and will eat about anything (bugs, plant life).
I read there are 2,000 coyotes in Chicago alone....

[93legendti]

http://detnews.com/article/20070511/METRO/705110389/Metro-Detroit-coyote-attacks-get-more-brazen

Metro Detroit coyote attacks get more brazen

CHRISTINE FERRETTI
The Detroit News

CANTON TOWNSHIP -- Janice Palis has seen coyotes from a distance, but she never expected to see three of the snarling animals attacking her 95-pound golden retriever as she walked beside him in a nature preserve. Within seconds, Duke, 10, was ravaged in the frenzied fight on a trail in the 500-acre William P. Holliday Nature Preserve off Haggerty and Koppernick roads earlier this week.

"They got all of his front and back limbs, trying to knock him down to kill him," said Janice's husband Gary Palis, 50, whose 120-pound wife fought the coyotes off with a stick. "If she wasn't there our dog would have been dead."

For both the size of the dog attacked and the proximity of Janice Palis, the confrontation marks one of the most brazen yet for the growing number of coyotes in Metro Detroit. In Grosse Pointe Farms, Westland, Plymouth, Dearborn and Detroit, the collie-sized animals have been on the prowl, mauling pets, strolling through golf courses, even being chased in downtown Detroit.

"Coyotes are losing their natural fear as they spend time around people and if they get fed," said Dave Bostick, fur bearer specialist for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. "They have a tendency to stop associating people with danger and start associating people with food."

Thought to fear humans, they are now venturing further into suburban neighborhoods, he said.

The Tuesday incident has left Duke with lacerations and puncture wounds along his front and back legs and the possibility of long-term nerve damage, the family said. He didn't walk again until Thursday.

Palis said Duke's attack has changed her perception of the seemingly peaceful coyotes.

"I've always been respectful to them. They are a part of nature now I am intimidated," said Palis, 49, who said the coyotes stalked her from a distance as she retreated to her vehicle after the attack.

Bostick said Michiganians unknowingly attract coyotes to their homes with landscaping techniques or by leaving pet food on outdoor porches at night.

Duke's run-in, he said, was probably a territorial move.

"It's the time of year that they are having pups they may perceive a dog as a threat," Bostick said.

Bill Sutherland, co-owner of Westland's Varmint Police Inc., doesn't agree.

For at least five years, he said, the DNR has downplayed the issue. Sutherland said it's only a matter of time before a child playing in a wooded park or yard becomes a target.

Bostick said habituated coyotes are not unique to southeastern Michigan, and nationwide the numbers have been growing for the past decade.

"Folks need to be aware of it and reduce the potential for a problem," he said.

Bill Starnes, 45 of Plymouth didn't think much of the coyote stories he's heard in recent weeks, until he saw one "prancing down Hines Drive" Thursday morning near Newburgh.

"I was surprised. It was very unusual," said Starnes.

[rugbysecondrow]

Aren't you allowed to shoot coyotes on sight?

That might not be a bad option.

[pbjbike]

There have been attacks from coyotes in CO, all in areas where they are under pressure from development, and their habitat has decreased substantially. Usually, it's been someone walking a dog, and the coyote goes for the dog. I am surrounded by open space and grazing land. Coyotes have free run around here and I see and hear them almost daily. When I'm with my dogs I'm concerned about a confrontation. The alpha male blue heeler will chase a lone coyote for miles, a real PITA...On a bike, a full size metal frame pump should be all the protection you'd need, and even then only as a prop.

[93legendti]

Coyotes invade Metro Detroit suburbs
Wily predator spreads fear in the Pointes
Steve Pardo / The Detroit News
Grosse Pointe Shores -- It was around 11 p.m. and Kathy Rinaldi had just let her Havanese, Lola, out for the last time that night.

The dog let out a howl so violent it was more like a scream, Rinaldi said. She ran to the door and locked eyes with a coyote that had just attacked her 13-pound dog standing near the side door of her home on Belle Meade.

"I yelled at it and he just stood there for quite a while," Rinaldi said, recalling the Dec. 17 standoff. "He really wasn't afraid of me."

It's that boldness that has law enforcement throughout the Grosse Pointes worried. Coyotes are a particular problem in the Pointes, and debate is on the rise over the best way to deal with them now that police have shot and killed two coyotes in recent months.

As recently as Friday morning, an officer was spotted with a rifle near Lake Shore Drive, firing unsuccessfully at a coyote on the ice on Lake St. Clair.

Reports of coyotes are growing from communities throughout southeastern Michigan, according to the Department of Natural Resources. They have been spotted everywhere from Grosse Ile to Westland to Bloomfield Township, which offers coyote safety tips on its Web site.

Last year, Bloomfield Hills gave its officers silencer-equipped rifles with scopes to respond to residents' complaints about coyote attacks on pets.

But the issue has taken on special urgency in the Pointes now that officers there have been given the "green light" to go after them -- with some success. Letters to the editor in the local newspaper reflect a divide in the community over whether to shoot them, trap and relocate them, or simply let residents and wildlife coexist.

It's open season
Rinaldi's dog, Lola, wasn't so lucky during her face-off with a coyote. She suffered six puncture wounds. Rinaldi had to take her to an emergency veterinarian.

"My $300 dog is up to $900 with all the medical bills," she said.

At least a half-dozen dogs and cats have been killed in the Pointes over the past two years. It's open season as far as Daniel Jensen, Grosse Pointe Farms director of public safety, is concerned.

"Every shift has the green light to shoot them," Jensen said. "We've put up with this long enough."

The coyotes had been burrowing in a wooded area of the Country Club of Detroit property near Kercheval and Irvine Lane.

"We know there's a big male left. A big male," Jensen said. "We've had numerous sightings, but we can't crank the shot off at the area with occupied dwellings."

Other public safety officers in the Pointes have also been authorized by their commanders to kill the predators. Grosse Pointe Woods officials also hired a trapper to come out after the next significant snowfall.

Jensen is certain the animals are becoming bolder and more dangerous.

"Every once in a while I get a letter saying 'trap them' or 'leave them alone,' " Jensen said. "I'm not putting my residents' families or pets at risk because of coyotes that have gone way overboard in losing their natural fear of humans. They just don't have it anymore. They're in people's yards."

'They're all over'
It's impossible to pin down their numbers, because there isn't an agency that monitors coyotes. But they're definitely growing, said Tim Payne, wildlife supervisor for the state Department of Natural Resources.

"They're all over in just about every community in southeast Michigan," Payne said. "In the last 10 years, it's really changed."

Part of that may be the lack of predators or competition from other animals, namely wolves. Part of it may be because the coyote is readily adaptable to areas occupied by humans.

According to the DNR, coyotes are most likely to be seen during their breeding period, which runs from mid-January into March in Michigan. Pups begin dispersing from the den site in the fall to establish home ranges of their own, and they sometimes wander into urban areas. Coyotes generally feed at night, and they are most active at sunrise and sunset.

Coyotes aren't picky eaters. Their natural diet consists of rabbits and other small mammals. But they'll eat garbage. And dog food. And little dogs, too, if given the opportunity.

The Michigan Humane Society encourages a "peaceful coexistence" with coyotes, said Jennifer Roberts, Humane Society spokeswoman. The Humane Society recommends trapping and relocation if the coyotes become destructive.

But even that can be less than ideal, Roberts admits.

"Relocation often ends up being problematic, for multiple reasons," she said. "First, the removed coyote may not adapt well to his new environment -- many relocated animals suffer a poor chance of survival in a new, unfamiliar territory. Second, his removal often results in other coyotes taking his place, given available food supply and shelter. Finally, relocation of animals can open the potential for disease transmission."

There have been documented cases in other states of coyotes acting aggressively -- chasing joggers and bicyclists, confronting people walking their dogs, and stalking small children.

"There's not been any record of coyotes attacking people in Michigan, but there have been records in Western states," Payne said. "It's when the coyotes get conditioned to people that things get bad. You want to make sure it has fear of you."

He said people who encounter coyotes should attempt to scare them by yelling or throwing things to encourage them to flee.

Rinaldi believes there are more coyotes in the area than officials believe.

"They want to tell you there's only four or five of them. I don't think so," Rinaldi said. "I've seen them four times now myself. I think there's more like 20 to 30."



From The Detroit News: http://www.detnews.com/article/20100206/METRO/2060314/-1/rss;jsessionid=17rgfnjy494i9#ixzz0iLixhpj3

[93legendti]

Aren't you allowed to shoot coyotes on sight?

That might not be a bad option.
I believe so. That's beyond my abilities in a neighbothood like ours. We aren't even close to being described as "rural".

[pbjbike]

Unless packs are totally wiped out, shooting doesn't decrease numbers in the long term. Packs adjust the number of offspring the following year to make up for low numbers....They do, however, learn quickly. When I moved here, there were a few that would make their rounds near the chicken coop in broad daylight. Shots fired over their heads each time they were spotted has led to a coyote free zone so far.

[Vancouverdave]

I grew up in an LA suburb with coyotes all around. Where I live now, the pitbulls worry me a whole lot more--coyotes are almost never a danger to humans.

[SEABREEZE]

I grew up in an LA suburb with coyotes all around. Where I live now, the pitbulls worry me a whole lot more--coyotes are almost never a danger to humans.

Same here Van, only north county SD, lost a german shepherd pup to a pack of coyotes. They work in Packs. They actually came into our yard.

More scarry than coyotes, one day I was walking on a fire rd with my two Shepherds and stummeled upon a rattler all coiled right in front of me.My natural reaction was to jump in the air. When I think back to it, I now say, how stupid, I should of just stepped back, I paniced and jumped in the air.

Growing up as a kid in NYC this was all new for me.

[Joellogicman]

"I was surprised. It was very unusual," said Starnes.[/I]

Coyotes like any predator do not want competition for food. Coyotes see dogs as competition. Humans on the other hand occupy a different niche that usually benefits coyotes.

[Kirk007]

I doubt you can legally shot them on site in all states - check fish and game regulations (not to mention this is dangerous business in an urban environment for anyone, even more so if you are not trained/experienced).

As we long ago screwed up the scheme of things, and have let one of the most resilient opportunistic species - coyotes - run amok we can only realistically hope to control them by aggressive management in populated areas combined with even more aggressive educations of urban populations re how to minimize habituating behaivor.

We shouldn't of killed off the wolves....

[93legendti]

http://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,1607,7-153-10363_10880_10996---,00.html


• Seasons 2009-2010:


Fox and Coyote Trapping Season: Statewide Oct. 15 - Mar. 1
Coyote may be taken on private property by a property owner or designee all year if they are doing or about to do damage on private property. A license or written permit is not needed. See Winter Fox and Coyote Non-lethal Snaring for regulations governing the trapping of fox and coyote with snares.

[OtayBW]

http://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,1607,7-153-10363_10880_10996---,00.html


• Seasons 2009-2010:


Fox and Coyote Trapping Season: Statewide Oct. 15 - Mar. 1
Coyote may be taken on private property by a property owner or designee all year if they are doing or about to do damage on private property. A license or written permit is not needed. See Winter Fox and Coyote Non-lethal Snaring for regulations governing the trapping of fox and coyote with snares.
So, what kind of CCW will you be bringing on your rides?

[pbjbike]

Assuming that you won't be on your own property on a ride...Relax, they're not out to get you, really. ;)

[Erik.Lazdins]

I've had greater issue with dogs in the country than any coyote and I usually see a few coyotes each week. Most are alone, trotting sideways, and will usually get out of my way the second they notice me.

On occasion I've seen 2 together, they aren't as skittish, yet left me alone

Then there was the racoon that jumped on my shoulder as I rode by - but thats another story...

[Bud_E]

I've had lots of coyote encounters riding around the Santa Monica Mountains. Some of them got closer to me than I was comfortable with but in all cases there was no act of aggression - just a stare-down and then leisurely trot away. I haven't heard of any attacks on people but as with any wild animal - especially if it's sick or hungry - I think it's possible. Maybe a can of pepper spray isn't such a bad idea. As mentioned by others, I've had the most problems with stray dogs.

[gdw]

Coyotes like to f*ck with Easterners, and transplants in Colorado, for laughs. They are not a threat to humans unless they have rabies or you're two feet tall and coated in steak sauce. Seriously, I see them almost everyday, on almost every ride, and have a computer full of photos of them taken from distances as close as 20ft. They are very intelligent animals and will not willingly fight anything which will most likely seriously hurt them in the encounter.

[Kirk007]

Coyotes like to f*ck with Easterners, and transplants in Colorado, for laughs.

Not that there's anything wrong with that (internet context: joke) ; ).

Interesting to read Native American stories about the coyote. If memory serves me correctly many tribes referred to them along the lines of "trickster." THey are remarkably adaptable and resilient.

[Charles M]

repost

[207 cm]

Unless packs are totally wiped out, shooting doesn't decrease numbers in the long term. Packs adjust the number of offspring the following year to make up for low numbers....They do, however, learn quickly. When I moved here, there were a few that would make their rounds near the chicken coop in broad daylight. Shots fired over their heads each time they were spotted has led to a coyote free zone so far.

1+



If you're still worried, just ride with someone slower then you are, they'll take him.....

[Charles M]

Coyotes are virtually ZERO threat to cyclists or hikers.





They're a dime a dozen here in Arizona and I have never in the last 20 years heard of a Coyote attack on a cyclist and never heard of one attacking a person without a small chaild or Pet involved.


I know two folks with Anilam control. One a 25 year veteran and he's never heard of a single attack on a cyclist and all he communicates with other states about this stuff for a living in a hotbed for Coyotes... He has heard of a false report in California that was actually later admitted as dogs.

Even in cases of Rabid Coyotes, they run from people and run like hell from cyclists.




I would blow this off as silly suburban / rural myth... The very last thing I would do is adjust anything with regard to my riding (Road or Mountain).



And remember I live where they film the Coyote vs Road Runner documentaries they play on Saturday Morning.


http://www.pezcyclingnews.com/photos/tech/serotta/meiwhole.jpg

[merlinmurph]

Last fall, a woman was attacked and killed (http://outside.away.com/outside/culture/201003/coyote-attacks-1.html) on Cape Breton Island, on the Skyline Trail, a very popular walking trail with tons of foot traffic. My wife and I were on that same trail just a few months earlier looking for moose. Recent research has shown that some eastern coyotes have breeded with wolves, creating a whole different type of coyote.

I was always the one telling people that coyotes are timid, solitary animals, and will just lope away when seeing you. Then just recently, I heard a report on NPR, then the article in Outside mag. Wow, that changes things.

[93legendti]

Last fall, a woman was attacked and killed (http://outside.away.com/outside/culture/201003/coyote-attacks-1.html) on Cape Breton Island, on the Skyline Trail, a very popular walking trail with tons of foot traffic. My wife and I were on that same trail just a few months earlier looking for moose. Recent research has shown that some eastern coyotes have breeded with wolves, creating a whole different type of coyote.

I was always the one telling people that coyotes are timid, solitary animals, and will just lope away when seeing you. Then just recently, I heard a report on NPR, then the article in Outside mag. Wow, that changes things.
I read the article in Outside as well.

[Pete Serotta]

about Coyotes or is that Cougars :cool:


Yep I am lonesome and not in danger :crap:

[11.4]

Coyotes are virtually ZERO threat to cyclists or hikers.





They're a dime a dozen here in Arizona and I have never in the last 20 years heard of a Coyote attack on a cyclist and never heard of one attacking a person without a small chaild or Pet involved.


I know two folks with Anilam control. One a 25 year veteran and he's never heard of a single attack on a cyclist and all he communicates with other states about this stuff for a living in a hotbed for Coyotes... He has heard of a false report in California that was actually later admitted as dogs.

Even in cases of Rabid Coyotes, they run from people and run like hell from cyclists.




I would blow this off as silly suburban / rural myth... The very last thing I would do is adjust anything with regard to my riding (Road or Mountain).



And remember I live where they film the Coyote vs Road Runner documentaries they play on Saturday Morning.


http://www.pezcyclingnews.com/photos/tech/serotta/meiwhole.jpg

On the other hand, Pez, while I agree about coyotes, there are great dangers from turkey vultures. I was in a race once with the erstwhile racing rep from Texas. He had bonked and I was escorting him back in (it helps when you want him to rule in your favor in the next race). Well, he was in a pretty bad way, and it was very hot, and before long we had a couple vultures overhead. Then four. Then about a dozen. Now neither of us was that big a dinner back then, but the numbers kept increasing. We started up this long gradual drag and the turkey vultures started landing on the road in front of us and lined up in rows to cut us off. The poor rep thought he was facing some recalcitrant roadies and started to issue suspensions. The vultures salivated. Long story short, we made it through, but until he died he had an operating rule about neutralizing a race whenever a turkey vulture was present.

[11.4]

Coyotes are virtually ZERO threat to cyclists or hikers.





They're a dime a dozen here in Arizona and I have never in the last 20 years heard of a Coyote attack on a cyclist and never heard of one attacking a person without a small chaild or Pet involved.


I know two folks with Anilam control. One a 25 year veteran and he's never heard of a single attack on a cyclist and all he communicates with other states about this stuff for a living in a hotbed for Coyotes... He has heard of a false report in California that was actually later admitted as dogs.

Even in cases of Rabid Coyotes, they run from people and run like hell from cyclists.




I would blow this off as silly suburban / rural myth... The very last thing I would do is adjust anything with regard to my riding (Road or Mountain).



And remember I live where they film the Coyote vs Road Runner documentaries they play on Saturday Morning.


http://www.pezcyclingnews.com/photos/tech/serotta/meiwhole.jpg

And by the way, Pez, we know you love that bike. This thread is like a podium girl thread without any pictures. Since you live in the right territory, let's have some coyotes!

[gdw]

Walking catfish, killer bees, feral pigs and dogs, global warming, wolf coyote hybrids...... I guess urban yuppies will believe almost anything especially when it's backed up by Outside Magazine.

Coydogs, wolf/coyote hybrids have been in the northeast for years. I remember reading about them being spotted in Upstate NY in the early 70's and saw a few in Maine in the early 80's. Some were pretty large compared to the western variety but none of them were actively hunting people.

Urban cougars are a different story and young men should be wary.

[Tom]

"Coyotes are known to feed on mice, squirrels, woodchucks, snowshoe hare, fawns, house cats, carrion, amphibians, garbage, insects and fruit."

Simple. Just try not to look like any of these and you'll be perfectly safe.

[rockdude]

Coyotes, Goblins and Goonies, they are all out to get us, O My!

Come on guys, I hope you have more to worry about than skinny coyotes. This is the type of conversation 2nd grade girls have not grown men who can generate 400w for an hour.

[Joellogicman]

Walking catfish, killer bees, feral pigs and dogs, global warming, wolf coyote hybrids...... I guess urban yuppies will believe almost anything especially when it's backed up by Outside Magazine.

Coydogs, wolf/coyote hybrids have been in the northeast for years. I remember reading about them being spotted in Upstate NY in the early 70's and saw a few in Maine in the early 80's. Some were pretty large compared to the western variety but none of them were actively hunting people.

Urban cougars are a different story and young men should be wary.

However, the Outside article reports on a young woman who was killed by coyotes in east Canada. The woman was killed an partly consumed by the coyotes. The report includes references to Canadian police and wildlife authorities who confirm the killing.

The coyotes in question in turn were killed by Canadian authorities. As I recall, they did not have rabies.

I don't think this means people should be running helter skelter scared of coyotes. Dogs and other people are a far greater menace to humanity. On the other hand, your suggestion the report is made up appears to be wrong.

[Charles M]

On the other hand, Pez, while I agree about coyotes, there are great dangers from turkey vultures.

LMAO,

I had that happen in Southern Cal. We had a buddy go over the bars and he was sitting on a rock waiting for us to return and never noted them circling.

We got back and he had rocks in both hands and said he literally pee'd himself (though quantified it with "just a little") when one of em plopped down on the trail right next to him.

[Charles M]

"Coyotes are known to feed on mice, squirrels, woodchucks, snowshoe hare, fawns, house cats, carrion, amphibians, garbage, insects and fruit."

Simple. Just try not to look like any of these and you'll be perfectly safe.


AAh ****...

With the Glasses we wear and the color selection, "Insects and Fruit" mean we're screwed.

[jblande]

turkey vultures are to my knowledge the most unattractive animal in the kingdom. this is not relevant to coyotes, but i believe nevertheless worthy of mention.

[gdw]

"However, the Outside article reports on a young woman who was killed by coyotes in east Canada. The woman was killed an partly consumed by the coyotes. The report includes references to Canadian police and wildlife authorities who confirm the killing.

The coyotes in question in turn were killed by Canadian authorities. As I recall, they did not have rabies.

I don't think this means people should be running helter skelter scared of coyotes. Dogs and other people are a far greater menace to humanity. On the other hand, your suggestion the report is made up appears to be wrong."

This was in Outside mag so it must be true. What was being advertised on the pages surrounding the story? Titanium Lady Smith and Wessons, Bear be Gone, Ultra-lite pack rifles.... :banana:

[kgreene10]

I have been backpacking in the Sierras for 30+ years and coyotes always come near the campsite at night but have never attacked. Even the bears rarely attack.

We were in S Africa recently and had the rare priviledge of seeing a pack of 15 wild dogs. They were incredible -- like dingos with giant bat ears and coats like miscellaneous carpet remnants.

[Onno]

Is this thread for real? There have been a lot of funny responses, but can anyone really be afraid of coyotes when on a bike? The only danger is running over one accidentally. If one or more give chase, you can think of yourself as extremely lucky--the first cyclist in history to be chased by coyotes.

It might be fun to try to imagine all the things that pose a greater risk than coyotes while on a bike.

Here's a start: being struck by an errant golf ball.

[93legendti]

"However, the Outside article reports on a young woman who was killed by coyotes in east Canada. The woman was killed an partly consumed by the coyotes. The report includes references to Canadian police and wildlife authorities who confirm the killing.

The coyotes in question in turn were killed by Canadian authorities. As I recall, they did not have rabies.

I don't think this means people should be running helter skelter scared of coyotes. Dogs and other people are a far greater menace to humanity. On the other hand, your suggestion the report is made up appears to be wrong."

This was in Outside mag so it must be true. What was being advertised on the pages surrounding the story? Titanium Lady Smith and Wessons, Bear be Gone, Ultra-lite pack rifles.... :banana:
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/toronto-singer-killed-by-coyotes/article1341376/
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/nova-scotia/story/2009/10/28/ns-coyote-attack-died.html
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/8331106.stm
http://www.cnn.com/2009/SHOWBIZ/Music/10/29/canada.singer.killed/index.html
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/11/02/world/americas/02coyote.html
http://ca.reuters.com/article/domesticNews/idCATRE59R4J720091028

[gdw]

I saw those. Coyote hybrids are truly evil but frankly I'm much more concerned about the killer cows that roam the local trails of our community.

Cow charges cyclist on Boulder open space

By Amy Bounds
Monday, January 19, 2009

BOULDER, Colo. — A cow charged a woman on the South Boulder Creek Trail on Monday afternoon, knocking her down, officials said.

The woman was riding her bike on the trail when she encountered the cow, and she stopped to let the animal pass, said Pete Taylor, a ranger for Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks. The cow knocked the woman over and walked on her legs, he said.

He said the woman — whose name wasn’t released — wasn’t seriously injured, and she refused medical treatment.

She didn’t appear to do anything to provoke the animal, which witnesses said appeared to have an injured leg, he said. The cow had left the scene by the time rangers arrived, but hikers coming down the trail were warning others about the rogue bovine.

Marshall Mesa open space is leased by livestock owners and used as grazing land. Taylor said the cow’s owner was notified.

In 2003, a woman was rammed three times and her pelvis fractured by a grazing mama cow when she accidentally ran between the animal and her calf on the South Boulder Creek Trail.

Jason Vogel, vice president of the Boulder Mountain Bike Alliance, called Monday’s attack “odd, rare and random” and said he hasn’t heard of any other cows going after cyclists. It’s not even common to come across cows on the trails, he said, though they often can be seen nearby.

“It’s not something people should be concerned about,” he said.

[Joellogicman]

This was in Outside mag so it must be true. What was being advertised on the pages surrounding the story? Titanium Lady Smith and Wessons, Bear be Gone, Ultra-lite pack rifles....

The victim was fairly well known and her death was reported by multiple sources, including the BBC and Canadian public press.

The Outside article went into more detail and the writing is more colorfull. If the story is a hoax, it is a hoax that was reported by many sources.

[Joellogicman]

I saw those. Coyote hybrids are truly evil but frankly I'm much more concerned about the killer cows that roam the local trails of our community.

Biologists quoted in the Outside article say the East Coast Coyotes while larger and more aggressive than their western counterparts were not previously known to pose a threat to humans. As the victim was alone, no one will ever know exactly what transpired leading to her death.

Recently there were several cases of people walking dogs in UK pastures being trampled by cows. Appears some Brits these days are more apt to let their dogs roam free. The dogs being dogs harrass cows. When cows see dogs nearby, they go ballistic. Unfortunately, the dogs were able to get out of the way faster, leaving their unfortunate masters to contend with one ton of irate but awkward bovine.

[gdw]

No offense guys but anyone who takes most of the comments in this thread seriously needs to go for a ride. :beer:

PS - Dogs are banned from the trails that our homicidal bovs inhabit.

[207 cm]

The most dangerous wild animal in Vermont is the porcupine. They are so slow they can't get out of the way and hikers step on them.

That and they can throw their tail quills 20 meters with deadly accuracy.

[pbjbike]

Coyotes like to f*ck with Easterners, and transplants in Colorado, for laughs. They are not a threat to humans unless they have rabies or you're two feet tall and coated in steak sauce. Seriously, I see them almost everyday, on almost every ride, and have a computer full of photos of them taken from distances as close as 20ft. They are very intelligent animals and will not willingly fight anything which will most likely seriously hurt them in the encounter.

:beer:

[CNY rider]

I also read the Outside mag article.
I live in the county they refer to as ground central of the eastern coyote population.
I worry more about being struck by lightning than having a coyote attack me on my bicycle.
I do, however, take it into consideration when sending my 2 year olds out to play, and I certainly wouldn't want to leave a small dog or cat out there alone.

[capybaras]

Seriously, I see them almost everyday, on almost every ride, and have a computer full of photos of them taken from distances as close as 20ft.

Please post pics.

[shinomaster]

Can't you just station a Merkava in front of your home? :D

[gdw]

Most of my coyote pictures are on an old computer at home. Here's a poor picture of two which ran beside me while I was riding this summer. We were on opposite sides of a stream and they were about 100 yards away by the time I dug my camera out. I have a series taken a couple of summers ago, some might have been posted here, of a family whose den was a few hundred yards from my house. The pups were quite tame. I'll see what I can find.

This laptop just has pictures of the really dangerous local game, deer and elk. Hit one on a fast downhill and you're toast.

[shinomaster]

I saw one on a ride in the west hills of Portland. It looked like a mangy, small dog. I could take it.

[learlove]

they are all over the place in NC. Last year when I lived down there my neighbor had a cat that lived on his porch. poor Mitty cat went out looking for mice one day and the cyotes got him.

[93legendti]

Can't you just station a Merkava in front of your home? :D
It's a thought-but I think they are banned in cities.

[William]

http://www.shingleberrysigns.com/design_icon/warning%201.gif




WARNING!!!

This thread has drifted to the topic of Coyotes and other assorted woodland creatures. Moderators, please move to OT Sub forum.



Stick with the new laws....just sayin'






William

[fiamme red]

http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/03/24/coyote-takes-tribeca/

[johnnymossville]

Speaking of Coyote, anyone remember this one from Hardcastle and McCormick?

http://www.gunaxin.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/coyote.jpg

[MarcusPless]

"This was in Outside mag so it must be true. What was being advertised on the pages surrounding the story? Titanium Lady Smith and Wessons, Bear be Gone, Ultra-lite pack rifles.... :banana:

Realizing that you might not accept *any* Internet source as being reliable...

You might try googling something like "cape breton coyote attack". I'm pretty much convinced that some sort of wild animal took down a human being. But this is the Internet; the whole thing is probably an elaborate hoax.

--Marcus

[gdw]

I've read about the attack as well as the one on the kid in California. Two fatal attacks in recorded history, one by alleged wolf/coyote hybrids, does not indicate that coyotes are hunting people. My comments were sarcastic since those of us who interact with coyotes regularly find this whole thread amusing and slightly pathetic. As to Outside, it has some decent articles once in awhile but is mainly filled with ads geared towards urban yuppie wantabee adventurers.

[Joellogicman]

As to Outside, it has some decent articles once in awhile but is mainly filled with ads geared towards urban yuppie wantabee adventurers.

educated professionals ought not enjoy camping, hiking, climbing, etc? Afterall, were such endeavors exclusive to the adventurers and their local support types, who would pay them?

BTW, while I do not think at all there is any reason to panic, an out door loving Canadian of some renown being killed is worth a story. It is news.

[MarcusPless]

I see coyotes on a semi-regular basis in and around San Diego; I personally don't view them as a threat. That said, if a coyote is acting strangely I'll give it a wide berth, given the possibility of rabies. I'll do the same thing with a skunk, a raccoon, or a squirrel. My neighbor has a cat that acts like it has a metal plate in it's head; one minute it's happy with you petting it, the next thing you know it's taking a chunk out of you. Way more dangerous than the typical coyote. :D

I don't worry about wildlife in general (since I don't live in bear country) but I'm always open to the possibility that they might be sick/injured/rabid. I've had deer come *this close* to knocking me off the bike. I don't think the deer were targeting me, but hitting the pavement at speed is still going to leave a mark.

I always get a chuckle when Outside magazine sends me a survey. I'm not sure who their target demographic is, but I'm pretty sure it's not me. :D A few decent articles, but way too much marketing fluff in between.

--Marcus

[Pete Serotta]

I know a few ladies, that for reasons beyond their control are once again dating = = they are true Coyotes and I say that with true respect. They are as classy and athletic as they were 30 years ago....it is amazing how difficult the "singles" environment is these days....Lots of "dulls" out there....

Yeah maybe BB Dave will censor this on me :confused:

[CNY rider]

I know a few ladies, that for reasons beyond their control are once again dating = = they are true Coyotes and I say that with true respect. They are as classy and athletic as they were 30 years ago....it is amazing how difficult the "singles" environment is these days....Lots of "dulls" out there....

Yeah maybe BB Dave will censor this on me :confused:


I thought those were "cougars"?

Signed,
Happily married and blissfully ignorant of the current social/dating scene

[Pete Serotta]

No wonder that look at me like I am crazy :confused:
QUOTE=CNY rider]I thought those were "cougars"?

Signed,
Happily married and blissfully ignorant of the current social/dating scene[/QUOTE]

[johnnymossville]

never saw a coyote in the wild myself, but I did have to sidestep a charging 8-10pt buck, and got hounded all night camping next to a porcupine's loud chewing a few years back.

[Seott-e]

No offense guys but anyone who takes most of the comments in this thread seriously needs to go for a ride. :beer:

PS - Dogs are banned from the trails that our homicidal bovs inhabit.

Really !?!? I live in north-eastern NY. I have heard stories like this, I don't think we need to over react but, Being attacked or killed by a Coyote might be a little bit seriuos........................

[93legendti]

Yesterday, a coyote walked across my back deck. It was about 1:00 pm. Luckily, the kids were at school.

Last week I saw a large dead coyote on the road about 1 mile from here.

[rockdude]

Yesterday, a coyote walked across my back deck. It was about 1:00 pm. Luckily, the kids were at school.

Last week I saw a large dead coyote on the road about 1 mile from here.


Very Cool... Did you get some pix.

Being here in the Foothills of colorado, I have had some exciting creatures on my deck in the last several years that include- foxes, rattlesnakes, lots Bears, Mountain lion, Wolf (very rare because this is not their range) and tons of small critters. I have seen some coyotes on my property but none have venture onto my deck yet.

[Bruce K]

We're starting to see them more and more in daylight.

Our dog goes balisitic and they just sort of stop and stare at him before moving on.

Our neighbor has said that he has seen them up on our deck at night sometimes if we have left the lights on.

I am trying to figure out options to scare them off before they venture any closer when the dog is out.

BK

[93legendti]

No. I was busy trying to scare it away. Now I know what's been getting in our garbage.

We live in a city with lots of traffic and lots of young kids live on our street. A coyote that brazen is a danger to my children.

If I lived in a quiet rural area, it would be different.

[93legendti]

We're starting to see them more and more in daylight.

Our dog goes balisitic and they just sort of stop and stare at him before moving on.

Our neighbor has said that he has seen them up on our deck at night sometimes if we have left the lights on.

I am trying to figure out options to scare them off before they venture any closer when the dog is out.

BK
A while back, my neighbor saw 2 in the morning.

Everything I read says make noise and throw something...not to hurt but to let them know we are not friendly and they should maintain their fear of us.

There are 10 kids under 10 yrs old and at least 12 dogs who live within spitting distance. I hope it's not matter of time before the coyotes get even more brazen.

[Lifelover]

http://tchester.org/sgm/lists/coyote_attacks.html

Bottom line, your children a 100 times more likely to be attacked by a stray dog than a coyote.

As long as you are not teaching your kids to try to hand feed them, they will be fine. Worse case, make them wear a helmet. Helmets make everything safer.

[false_Aest]

I know a few ladies, that for reasons beyond their control are once again dating = = they are true Coyotes and I say that with true respect. They are as classy and athletic as they were 30 years ago....it is amazing how difficult the "singles" environment is these days....Lots of "dulls" out there....

Yeah maybe BB Dave will censor this on me :confused:

Pete, you're using the term coyote improperly. Coyote is a term for an extremely unattractive woman.


As per the Urban Dictionary: "coyote ugly: A situation encountered after a night of consuming alcohol whereby a person, usually male, wakes the next morning in a strange bed with a sexual partner from the previous evening who is completely physically undesirable . . . . . and sleeping on the man's arm. The hapless male would rather gnaw off his own arm than wake the woman and have to face the ills of his intoxicated choices the previous evening. Originating from a phenomena whereby a coyote captured in a jaw trap will chew off its own leg to escape certain death. "



Cougars on the other hand are hot older women who maintain their athletic build and killing instinct, happy to slay young meat nightly.


w0rd

[93legendti]

http://tchester.org/sgm/lists/coyote_attacks.html

Bottom line, your children a 100 times more likely to be attacked by a stray dog than a coyote.

As long as you are not teaching your kids to try to hand feed them, they will be fine. Worse case, make them wear a helmet. Helmets make everything safer.
Copyright © 2000-2001 by Tom Chester.
Permission is freely granted to reproduce any or all of this page as long as credit is given to me at this source:
http://tchester.org/sgm/lists/coyote_attacks.html
Comments and feedback: Tom Chester
Updated 23 October 2001.

That info is almost 9 years old...there have been alot of attacks against humans since then. I'm going to stick with my course of action.

http://www.heraldnews.com/sports/x1355824352/OUTDOORS-Coyote-attacks-are-on-the-rise-across-the-country
http://www.denverpost.com/opinion/ci_11862802
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24567192/

[Lifelover]

Copyright © 2000-2001 by Tom Chester.
Permission is freely granted to reproduce any or all of this page as long as credit is given to me at this source:
http://tchester.org/sgm/lists/coyote_attacks.html
Comments and feedback: Tom Chester
Updated 23 October 2001.

That info is almost 9 years old...there have been alot of atatcks against children since then. I'm going to stick with my course of action.


Life is about risk management. Protect yourself from the most likely risk.

What are you doing to protect them from regular dogs?

[ALAMIKE]

In April and May, Coyotes have their pups. So they get more active about protecting their young and providing for their pups. I have a den near my house and I saw at least two in my front yard this morning. I keep my distance from them and watch my surrounds this time of the year.

[retrogrouchy]

A while back, my neighbor saw 2 in the morning.

Everything I read says make noise and throw something...not to hurt but to let them know we are not friendly and they should maintain their fear of us.

There are 10 kids under 10 yrs old and at least 12 dogs who live within spitting distance. I hope it's not matter of time before the coyotes get even more brazen.

If you're lying awake at night in Michigan worrying about coyotes, you need to find something more important to worry about, imho (like creeping Socialism, or something, anything, maybe?). ;)

[dancinkozmo]

If you're lying awake at night in Michigan worrying about coyotes, you need to find something more important to worry about, imho (like creeping Socialism, or something, anything, maybe?). ;)

how about the whole "kwame kilpatrick situation" ??

[dumbod]

Get yourself a couple of greyhounds.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/26/sports/26greyhounds.html?ref=sports

[godfrey1112000]

we sell anvils for cyclist who are worried about this situation

you carry our super lite carbon fiber coated anvil, total weight 75 pounds 200 grams

for the gram counters the pro version 75 pounds 100 grams

I guarantee you will not see any coyotes or anyone else with this in you cycling jersey pocket

I have seen about 5 in Kansas in the last 15 years and one in California

The Kansas coyotes stay in the corn and wheat fields and always seem to be running away from us

in California, Death Valley this guy is so used to people feeding him he walk up to the truck, sat by the driver's door and waited to be fed, we were told he is a regular, like the bears in yellow stone,

I am more concerned about mini vans with the drivers on their cell phone

have fun and please let me know how many you would like to order, team colors are available

[retrogrouchy]

how about the whole "kwame kilpatrick situation" ??

Yep, that would be fine! We love our doofy thugs sometimes, though. :cool:

[93legendti]

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/06/27/rye-coyote-attack-girl-6-_n_626909.html
http://abclocal.go.com/wabc/story?section=news/local&id=7241642

[gdw]

No offense guy but it's time to grow a pair and move on.

[cloudguy]

http://www.denverpost.com/politics/ci_10503487

[jmeloy]

Paint a tunnel opening on the side of a rock and they'll run right into it.

Saw it on a cartoon once.
beep beep

[rockdude]

Heck, I saw a bear on my ride today. He was eating out of some trash bags so I road up to him and tried to kick him but he move just in time. FYI- I did this not to be tough but to try to scare him off. He had already been tagged and next time he is caught its not going to be a good day for him.

[retrogrouchy]

http://www.denverpost.com/politics/ci_10503487

Interesting! Just one piece of data, but interesting nonetheless....

[93legendti]

http://wcbstv.com/local/coyote.coyote.attack.2.1780945.html


Jun 30, 2010 2:04 pm US/Eastern

Rye Braces For Possibility Of More Coyote Attacks

The mayor of a Westchester town is calling two coyote attacks on little girls a serious threat to public safety and he admits city officials have no idea why they are viciously attacking the young children.

Police believe a coyote entered the backyard of a Rye home through a break in the fence before it bit a three-year-old girl in the neck Tuesday night as she played with a 6-year-old neighbor.

"The coyote jumped on the girl, bit her in the neck," said Rye Police Commissioner William Connors. "The other girl started screaming."

A neighbor saw the coyote and called police.

"It was the size of a large German shepherd," said Doug MacLaury. "Looked very healthy, very fast."

Just four days earlier, another little girl was mauled by two coyotes while playing in her front yard – just a mile away from where Tuesday's attack occurred.

Now, nearby families with small children and dogs have new rules.

"They're not allowed to walk the dog anymore," said Carolyn Lyons, Rye resident, of her children.

"If I saw one I would wave my arms around and make al ot of noise," said Julia MacLaury, 12. "Maybe if I had an object, I'd throw it."

Rye City officials are asking parents to be sure to keep small children well supervised and avoid outdoor play, particularly at dusk.

[retrogrouchy]

I guess you should avoid moving to that particular suburb of Rye, (NY?), then. I've now crossed it off my list, anyways, just to be safe.... :rolleyes:

And coyotes aren't the size of 'large German Shepards' - maybe they saw a cougar? A large German Shepard mix? An abandoned Wolf hybrid? Daffy Duck?

[gdw]

Poor kids. It sounds more like a rabies problem than another example of how eastern coyotes have morphed into man hunting alpha preditors.


"fits the description of the Greenburg coyote exactly: the yellowish coat, dog-like appearance and sharp teeth"

Great description.... that's like saying it was a white guy in jeans. Did those articles really come from the local papers or the ONION?

[coylifut]

the original question was "what I can carry with me while biking to convince any coyote I come across that I am not prey?"

the answer is nothing. even though coyotes can run 35 mph, they've got no interest in you. don't give in to the fear.

[false_Aest]

I just shout, "US IMMIGRATION!!!!"

[beungood]

http://tchester.org/sgm/lists/coyote_attacks.html

Bottom line, your children a 100 times more likely to be attacked by a stray dog than a coyote.

As long as you are not teaching your kids to try to hand feed them, they will be fine. Worse case, make them wear a helmet. Helmets make everything safer.

Depends on where your located and What type of Coyote it is. There have been several attacks around here. My buddy's kid was hunting up in the Northeast Kingdom in Vermont and was stalked very closely by a pack of large coyotes that got very close. He said there were many pairs of eyes and that he got a bad feeling and left the woods early. We have roughly 7 to 10 big ones in a reservoir near us and one that looks to be 50 or 60 lbs.