Coyote Population Exploding in Florida, They've Been Seen in Every County

Coyote Population Exploding in Florida, They've Been Seen in Every County

Sarasota, Venice, Bradenton and all Points Suncoast Have Reports of Coyotes

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission says that there is no population estimate for coyotes in Florida, but they do confirm they been spotted in all 67 counties in Florida, even on beaches.

Coyotes can thrive in urban, suburban and rural areas because they’re adaptable, according to the FWC. They can eat almost everything humans eat — including fruits, nuts and seeds, and they can eat pet food, garbage, rodents, domestic cats and small dogs.

The FWC suggests keeping pets on a non-retractable leash no longer than 6 feet when taking a walk.. they also recommend having a fenced yard.

Coyotes are so frightened of people, that there are very few reports of bites, according to the FWC.

The below link is an interactive map from the FWC, which tracks calls the agency receives from the public regarding coyote sightings. The green dots on the map are sightings reported within the last 24 months and the blue dots are calls received more than 24 months ago.

https://myfwc.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=361045279a7f46829cc316da3d2ddc88

The average Florida coyote weighs 28 pounds, according to the FWC. Coyotes breed every year and females produce between two and 12 pups per litter, which are raised in a den. Coyotes are predatory and help control the populations of foxes, opossums and raccoons.

If you encounter a coyote, the FWC suggests “hazing” the animal by making yourself appear larger by standing up or standing on a rock or stump or stair, and then making noise. Other recommendations included: carrying a small air horn, walking stick or making a “coyote shaker.”

A “coyote shaker” is easy to make. Just drop a few coins or rocks into an empty soda can, wrap the top of the can in foil and tape it closed. Shake the can and the noise will scare coyotes away, according to the FWC.

This is everything that the FWC has to say about Coyotes in Florida: https://myfwc.com/conservation/you-conserve/wildlife/coyotes/?redirect=coyote