The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to host live webinar September 9 on coyotes in Florida communities
Florida – The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is inviting everyone to a live virtual talk about coyotes on Tuesday, September 9, at 7 p.m. There will be an FWC scientist at the online session who will talk about the biology, history, and behavior of these creatures, as well as how to avoid conflicts with them.
Coyotes are becoming a permanent part of the landscape in Florida. They used to live mostly in the western states, but they have naturally spread their range and have been seen in all 67 Florida counties since at least 2007. They live in every state in North America except Hawaii. They have been able to live in rural, suburban, and metropolitan areas because they can adapt, which has led to more frequent interactions with people.
During the presentation, participants will learn about how coyotes help ecosystems. These dogs help keep the numbers of tiny predators like raccoons, opossums, and foxes in check. Coyotes are important to the environment, but they are opportunistic eaters and can be a problem if they can get to food that people leave out, like unsecured trash or pet food.
The FWC stresses that trying to get rid of coyotes is useless and even harmful. Studies demonstrate that when hunting or trapping lowers the number of coyotes, the animals respond by having babies earlier and having more of them. Populations quickly bounce back, and they often reach their earlier levels. Instead, experts say that communities should focus on how to live together.
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People who live there should never feed coyotes on purpose or by accident. One important way to stop this from happening is to get rid of things that attract pests, like dropped fruit, unsecured compost, or pet food. Hazing methods like making loud noises or acting violently can keep coyotes away from people who get too close. Coyotes are normally shy and stay away from people, but regular hazing can help keep them that way.
If you see coyotes acting strangely, such coming up to people or pursuing pets, you should tell the local FWC offices. The Commission also wants neighborhoods to work together to adopt best practices to avoid conflicts because coyotes that can easily get food may stop being afraid of people.
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The forthcoming webinar will help residents learn more about these animals and how to live securely with them. People who want to can attend the session online at the designated time and get direct help from FWC professionals.
