Coyotes and Leave No Trace

Austin’s parks and greenbelts are home to a variety of wildlife. Coyotes, snakes and lots of other critters live in these natural areas year-round. As you visit parks and trails, it is important to understand how to safely share space with wildlife.

Coyote denning season in Austin runs from March through November. During this period, adult coyotes raise pups in dens located throughout parks and greenbelts. Adult coyotes may become more defensive if an off-leash dog approaches a den or pups. Later in the season, young coyotes begin to explore away from the den, which can lead to more sightings. Coyotes are most active at dawn and dusk, but daytime sightings are not uncommon.

Coyotes are part of Austin’s ecosystem and help control rodent populations. Coyotes are reclusive and tend to avoid humans but may attack dogs if threatened or to protect their young. If you see a coyote during the day, make yourself look large and make noise to encourage it to move away. This helps shape coyote behavior and encourages them to avoid contact with people and pets. It reinforces coyotes’ natural wariness without harming them. 

Leashing your dog is the most effective way to prevent a negative encounter. Keep dogs leashed or within six feet of you in designated off-leash areas. Unleashed dogs are more likely to approach dens or pups, which can trigger defensive behavior from coyotes.

Leave No Trace principles support safe and responsible park use. Stay on marked trails. Pack out all trash. Give wildlife space to live undisturbed. These practices help protect natural areas and the animals that inhabit them. Learn more about Leave No Trace.