
A recent incident in Chicago brought urban wildlife encounters into sharp focus this week. On January 13, 2025, customers at an Aldi store in the Humboldt Park neighborhood were startled to discover a coyote hiding behind a selection of fine cheeses in the produce section. The unusual sight, captured on video that has since gone viral, shows animal control officers carefully extracting the frightened animal from a refrigerated shelf. In addition, a coyote was reportedly killed on Sunday when it was struck by a United flight taking off from O’Hare International Airport. These events highlight the increasing presence of coyotes in Chicagoland, likely due to mating season, which occurs annually between January and March. So, today I’m sharing my top tips for protecting pets during coyote mating season in Chicago.
Protecting Chicago Pets from Coyotes
With a 27% rise in coyote encounters reported in Chicago in 2024, it’s crucial for pet owners to take precautions as follows:
- Leash Your Dogs: Always keep dogs on a leash during walks, even in fenced areas. This simple step can prevent your pet from chasing or being chased by a coyote.
- Supervise Outdoor Time: Never leave pets unattended outside, even in your own yard. Coyotes can jump fences or dig under them. According to some sources, coyotes have been seen jump as high as 6 to 8 feet if motivated enough.
- Keep Cats Indoors: Indoor cats are safer from coyotes and other wildlife hazards.
- Use Protective Gear: Consider using spiked coyote collars or special coyote vests like this one for small dogs. These can deter attacks and protect vulnerable areas.
- Be Aware of Peak Activity Times: Coyotes are more active during mating season and may be seen during daylight hours while looking for a mate. Adjust your pet’s outdoor schedule accordingly, especially if you have spotted a coyote in your area during the day.
- Secure Food Sources: Don’t leave pet food or water bowls outside as they will attract coyotes.
- Secure Trash: Ensure trash is properly contained to avoid attracting coyotes to your property.
- Make Noise: If you encounter a coyote, make loud noises and appear large to scare it away.
- Protect Yourself and Your Pets on Walks: Consider carrying a noise or spray deterrent on walks. Many professional dog walkers carry PetSafe’s citronella deterrent with them at all times.
- Change It Up: If you notice coyotes in your area at specific times or in specific areas, alter your walking routes or schedules accordingly.
Learning to Live With Coyotes in Chicagoland
Coyotes play an important role in our ecosystem by helping to control rodent populations. The goal is not to eliminate them but to coexist safely. By taking the above precautions and keeping Chicago clean, we can protect our pets while respecting the wildlife that shares our urban spaces.
As we move through the winter months and into the peak of coyote mating season, stay vigilant and informed. If you encounter wildlife in distress or in unusual places, contact your local animal control authorities. They are equipped to handle these situations safely.
The City of Chicago’s animal control office contact information is 312.747.1406. The Elmhurst Police Department has wildlife management tips here. I always recommend pet parents and animal lovers save their city or county’s animal control phone number on their smartphones to be prepared for the unexpected, especially when coyote sightings are high.
Chicago PD recommends contacting the following numbers during non-emergency situations:
Telephone: 311 (within city limits)
Telephone: 312-746-6000 (outside of city limits)
TTY: 311
The Best Care for Chicago’s Pets
If you are new to Floofins & Co. and interested in our dog walking, pet sitting, dog training, or pet photography services, please fill out our contact form. Once received, we will be in touch to further discuss your interest. Please give us a call at 630-478-8915 or drop us a line at info@floofinsandco.com. We are happy to discuss our services from Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5 PM.
Learn more about our in-home pet care new client on-boarding process here. If you are an existing client, please schedule services here.
Be safe out there, friends! Our team remains vigilant and is trained to handle unpredictable coyote encounters as best they can!
Do you live in the chicagoland area and are looking for a pet care specialist? Get in touch with our team today:
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