Coyote Warning Issued In Broomfield

BROOMFIELD, CO — The City and County of Broomfield is warning residents to supervise their pets after coyote sightings in the area. Coyotes are very active this time of year, city officials said.

Small pets are particularly vulnerable as they may be seen as prey.

Coyote young are born in the spring and food requirements for females and their growing young are high until late summer. They may watch people or dogs passing through their territory and sometimes trot along nearby in what's called 'escorting behavior,' city officials said.

Coyotes may perceive other animals, including pets, as a threat, competition or prey.

The city and county offered guidelines to protect your pets and avoid conflict:

- Always supervise your pet outside.

- Never leave a pet unattended in your yard.

- Keep dogs on a short leash during walks.

- Avoid known or potential den sites and areas of thick vegetation.

- Never allow dogs to interact with coyotes.

- Keep cats inside.

- Yell, clap your hands, blow a whistle, or wave your arms if you have a coyote encounter.

- Do not leave pet food, water bowls, fallen fruit, unenclosed garbage, fallen birdseed, or other attractants outside.

Remember: Coyotes are capable of jumping six-foot fences.

For more information, contact Broomfield Open Space and Trails openspace@broomfield.org.

You can also visit the Broomfield Open Space and Trails website to review coyote information, research, hazing techniques and FAQs.