Keeping your yard safe from coyotes is crucial for your pets and ecosystem. Here are five natural methods to deter these cunning creatures.^^
Coyotes, often referred to as prairie wolves or American jackals, are highly adaptable wild canines. While their presence can enrich the environment, they pose risks to pets and may disrupt local ecosystems. Knowing how to keep coyotes out of your backyard is essential to safeguard your home and pets effectively. Here are five natural ways to deter these wild creatures before they become a problem.^^
Grow Barrier Plants
Planting dense barrier plants around the perimeter of your yard can significantly deter coyotes. They create a natural obstacle that makes it harder for these animals to enter your property. Experts recommend using barberry or firethorns as effective hedge plants. According to Tamara Hogan, a plant expert at Fast Growing Trees, these plants have dense foliage along with thorns, making it difficult for coyotes to navigate through.
- Firethorns: Also known as pyracantha, these plants come in various types, like the popular pyracantha 'goldrush' from Secret Garden Growers. They thrive in USDA hardiness zones 6 to 9.
- Barberry: Ideal for zones 3 to 8, barberries provide dense coverage and an aesthetic appeal to your yard, ensuring privacy without blocking sunlight.
Installing barrier plants not only protects your yard but also enhances your landscape design, making it a win-win for security and aesthetics.^^
Install a High Fence
If barrier plants are not an immediate option, consider erecting a fence. A high fence, at least six feet tall, can serve as a robust barrier against coyotes. Tammy Sons, CEO of TN Nursery, suggests adding roller bars or barbed wire at the top of the fence. Coyotes are agile jumpers, capable of leaping over fences taller than eight feet.
For extra security, the Ultimation pack of 2 10" roller and bracket set available on Amazon can be an effective deterrent. By making it difficult for coyotes to grip and climb over, these roller bars offer a humane solution while enhancing your property’s safety.^^
Deter Coyotes with Fragrant Plants
Interestingly, coyotes possess a strong sense of smell, which can be strategically used against them. Incorporating fragrant plants like lavender, marigolds, and mint can help keep these intruders at bay. According to Paul LeBlanc, owner of Bloomist, these plants emit scents that coyotes find unpleasant, thereby creating a natural pest control strategy.
- Lavender: Consider the Phenomenal Lavender Plant from The Sill; it not only beautifies your garden but also wards off coyotes.
- Marigolds: These colorful blooms are renowned for their pungent odor, available as French marigold seeds on Amazon that come highly rated.
- Mint: Use varieties like spearmint and peppermint to create a fragrant border. You can start seedlings using hydroponic city seed starter trays from Amazon for easy growing supervision.
If planting isn't feasible, consider pest control sprays like the Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Insect and Pest Control Spray from Amazon to deter coyotes effectively. During application, ensure to check how these scents affect pets you might have.^^
Use Motion Sensors
Adding technology can provide ease in preventing coyotes from entering your yard. Opt for motion sensor devices such as ultrasonic repellents or motion-activated sprinklers. For example, the 2024 upgraded ultrasonic pest and insect repellent from Amazon emits high-frequency sounds that are inaudible to humans but irritating to coyotes.
As discussed by Paul LeBlanc, utilizing motion-activated sprinklers can scare off coyotes when they trip the sensor, effectively reducing their chances of making your yard their new home. These options are also perfect if you're looking for a low-maintenance way to keep wildlife at bay.^^
Avoid Leaving Food Scraps in Your Yard
Coyotes scavenge for food scraps, which presents an open invitation to invade your yard. All experts, including Tammy and Tamara, stress the significance of eliminating food sources. Secure your trash cans and avoid leaving pet food outside overnight. Feed pets indoors, and inspect your yard for any fallen fruit that could attract these animals.
- Keep trash secured: Ensure that your trash bins are closed properly and inaccessible.
- Eliminate compost piles: Be mindful about compost content—avoid adding items that may attract coyotes.
- Feed pets indoors: Removing all food sources helps minimize coyote presence significantly.
By taking these simple yet effective ways to limit food access, you can make your yard a less tempting target for coyotes.^^
Combining these strategies enhances your defenses against coyotes effectively. Implementing barrier plants, installing a secure fence, utilizing fragrant plants, employing motion sensors, and managing food sources can help you keep coyotes away from your backyard. Taking these proactive steps ensures that your pets and yard remain safe from these cunning wild intruders.