As winter settles in, many homeowners begin to notice an increase in coyote activity, especially in the form of howling during the night and early morning hours. These sounds often seem louder, closer, and more frequent than at other times of the year, which leads many people to assume that coyote numbers are suddenly increasing. In reality, what people are hearing is tied to a normal seasonal behaviour rather than a rise in population.
Late January through February marks the beginning of coyote breeding season. During this time, coyotes become more vocal as they communicate with potential mates and reinforce territorial boundaries. Pairs begin to form, and family groups stay connected through sound. Winter conditions also play a role in how noticeable this activity becomes, as cold air and snow allow sound to travel farther, making coyotes sound much closer than they actually are.
Along with increased vocal activity, coyotes are often seen more frequently during daylight hours at this time of year. Snow cover can reduce the movement of smaller prey, causing coyotes to adjust their travel patterns. Open fields, roadways, and the edges of residential neighbourhoods become easier routes to move through, which naturally leads to more sightings. This behaviour is typical during winter and does not indicate that coyotes are becoming aggressive or targeting homes.
For most homeowners, this seasonal increase in activity does not pose a direct risk. Coyotes are naturally cautious animals and generally avoid people whenever possible. That said, it is still important to limit anything that may attract them to residential areas. Securing garbage, avoiding leaving pet food outdoors, cleaning up fallen bird seed, and supervising pets during early morning and evening hours can all help reduce the chance of close encounters.
It is also important not to panic or attempt to handle wildlife situations on your own. Chasing, confronting, or intentionally trying to scare coyotes can create unnecessary risk and may escalate otherwise normal behaviour. In some cases, concerns arise when coyotes repeatedly appear at close range, show little fear of people, or attempt to den under structures such as sheds, decks, or crawlspaces. Identifying these situations early helps prevent more serious issues later in the season.
Seasonal wildlife behaviour often feels alarming when it changes suddenly, but winter coyote activity follows a predictable pattern each year. Once breeding season passes, both vocalizations and sightings typically decrease. Understanding this cycle makes it easier to respond calmly and avoid overreacting to what is usually a short-lived phase.
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