This time of year, it’s not uncommon to hear about an uptick in coyote sightings around the state. That’s because coyotes are more visible during their breeding season (January to March), as well as in the spring and summer months when they’re caring for pups.

Coyotes are extremely adaptable and can be found just about everywhere: in forests, fields, farmlands, backyards, neighborhoods and cities. They’ve learned to survive in urban landscapes throughout Michigan. When food sources are available – things like trash bins, bird feeders and pet food – coyotes may become more comfortable around people.

To minimize potential conflicts and protect your small pets, DNR furbearer specialist Adam Bump has a few suggestions.

“The first thing to remember is never to intentionally feed or try to tame a coyote; leave wildlife in the wild,” Bump said. “Remove those appealing food sources, fence off your gardens and fruit trees, clear out wood and brush piles, and accompany your pets outdoors rather than letting them roam free.”

Additionally, there are some hunting and removal options:

Coyote hunting is open year-round. Michigan residents need a valid base license to hunt them. See the current-year Fur Harvester Digest for coyote hunting and trapping regulations.

On private property where coyotes are doing or about to do damage, a property owner or designee can take coyotes year-round; a license or written permit is not needed.

A permitted nuisance control business can assist in the safe removal of problem animals in urban or residential areas.

Critter Control has just made wildlife identification and pest control as easy as snapping a photo with their new app, Critter Lookup. Sometimes upon getting into a new home, especially in a new area, residents can be confronted with wildlife or insects they’ve never seen before. Critter Lookup features an extensive image catalog of mammals, birds, insects, and more for users to browse through. If your animal can’t be found in the catalog, our app features a Photo ID option. You can snap a picture of your new friend and it will be emailed directly to a Critter Control representative who will respond with an identification.

Critter Lookup doesn’t just identify the animal in question, the app also provides information about the critter’s habitat and behavior. It will help users make the best decision on whether professional help is required or not.

Check it out at the link below.

https://www.crittercontrol.com/media/critter-lookup-app