We’ve been working to educate neighborhoods about how counterproductive it is to trap and kills coyotes as a management tool. The Vinings Village Homeowner’s Association had already collected  money for trapping when Paula Court contacted us and we were happy to provide the group the scientific information they needed for the community. Paula, who lives in Vinings, worked particularly hard on this effort. The letter sent out from the Vinings Village Homeowner’s Association tells the whole story.

Here is the letter (click on the letter to enlarge it) along with a list of recommendations from the Vinings Village Homeowners Association below it:

Vinings Village Homeowner’s Association Letter

COYOTE INFORMATION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Coyotes are predators and are usually nocturnal, though they may also be seen during the day.  They will forage beyond their natural habitat if forced by urbanization.  When this occurs, they are a threat to small animals, including pets.

There is no available data to indicate that the overall coyote population around Vinings has risen significantly, although increasing urbanization may have contributed to possible territorial shifts.

Coyotes do not generally consider humans as a threat to their territory.  While there are isolated cases of coyotes attacking humans, the incidents are very rare and most often occur when people have fed them.  Feeding can lead to a behavioral progression which may result in coyotes being more aggressive than normal.

The VVHA will launch a coyote information campaign via our website at viningshoa.org.  In the meantime, listed are some suggestions which will assist in promoting a “win-win” program for our community:

• Do not feed coyotes, feral cats, deer, or any wild animals.
• Do not leave pet food outside.
• Make sure garbage cans are tightly closed.
• Keep pets on a leash for walks.
• Keep small pets inside at night.
• Know that bird feeders and dirty BBQ grills attract wild animals.

If you spot a coyote, do not approach it.  Coyotes want to avoid you as much as you want to avoid them.  If a coyote comes within 30-50 feet of you, it will likely be a chance encounter.  Most of the time, maintaining eye contact, yelling, stomping your feet, or slapping a newspaper against your leg will cause the coyote to back away.  If you have a dog with you, the situation changes because coyotes see dogs as competitors.  Back out of the area and calmly leave – do not run.  If you are accompanied by a small dog, pick it up.

The Board of the Vinings Village Homeowners Association shares your concerns about the natural risks posed by coyotes and we will remain vigilant.  We welcome your feedback on our website, including reported sightings of coyotes with date and location.  We sincerely appreciate your support and we will continue to do our best to meet the needs of our growing community.