You may have heard their howls in the dark of night, off in the distance. In Apache Junction, and through Arizona, coyotes wander and live in the neighboring areas, heavily populated or not. Coyotes have been known to enter urban areas, day or night. In fact, there are so many coyotes in Arizona, we named our hockey team after them. It is important to know what attracts them, and how to keep them away. Coyotes can pose a real danger to anyone, especially young children and smaller pets.

We have contacted Arizona Game and Fish Department regarding coyotes in the resort. Because of the sheer volume of coyotes that live in Arizona, they will not dispatch anyone to remove coyotes unless it’s sick, injured, or aggressive. 

SUGGESTIONS ON DEALING WITH COYOTES FROM THE ARIZONA GAME AND FISH DEPARTMENT

• Carry a noise maker. You can make your own using an empty water bottle or can with rocks in it.
• Make a liquid solution made up of 8 parts ammonia and 1 part water that can be sprayed on the perimeter of your property and any exterior walls. Note that the ammonia will kill plants. You can also use the same solution to soak a towel and leave it near entrances or egresses to your property. 
• Do not leave smells that would attract coyotes outside. Garbage or dog food, cat food, dog treats, or water left outside for other animals can attract coyotes.

According to Coyote Smarts, here is what you should do if you encounter a coyote: 

• Be as big and loud as possible. Do not run or turn your back.
  
• Wave your arms, clap your hands, and shout in an authoritative voice.
• Make noise by banging pots and pans or using an air horn or whistle. These sounds can also alert the neighbors.
• Throw small stones, sticks, tennis balls or anything else you can lay your hands on. Remember the intent is to scare and not to injure.
• Spray with a hose, if available, or a squirt gun filled with water and vinegar.
• Shake or throw a “coyote shaker”—a soda can filled with pennies or pebbles and sealed with duct tape.

This article was updated on Dec. 10, 2023.