Lake Bluff's natural areas are an important part of the community. With significant open space as well as bluffs, ravines and wooded areas, the Village also provides habitat for a variety of wildlife—including coyotes.
Coyotes are found throughout Illinois and the Chicago region, including suburban communities. They generally avoid people, and seeing a coyote does not necessarily indicate a dangerous situation. Residents should nevertheless understand coyote behavior and take reasonable precautions to protect themselves and their pets.
If You Encounter a Coyote
If a coyote approaches or does not move away:
- Do not run. Stand tall and make yourself appear larger.
- Yell, clap your hands and wave your arms.
- Use a whistle, shaker can or other noise-making device if available.
- If the coyote moves a short distance away and stops or looks back, continue making noise and appearing large until it leaves.
- Keep pets close to you and under your control.
Consistently discouraging coyotes from approaching people can help reinforce their natural tendency to avoid humans.
If a coyote behaves aggressively or poses an immediate threat to a person, move to a safe location and call 911.
Protect Your Pets
Coyotes are capable predators, and small domestic animals can be vulnerable. A fence alone should not be considered a guarantee that a small pet is protected.
Residents should:
- Supervise small pets whenever they are outside, including in fenced yards.
- Keep dogs on a leash when walking them.
- Keep cats indoors.
- Be especially attentive around dawn, dusk and nighttime, when coyotes may be more active.
- Never allow a pet to approach or interact with a coyote.
Make Your Property Less Attractive to Coyotes
Coyotes may be drawn to properties by food, water, shelter or animals they consider prey. Residents can reduce these attractants by taking a few simple precautions:
- Never feed coyotes.
- Do not leave pet food outdoors.
- Pick up fallen or ripe fruit.
- Keep garbage and food waste securely stored.
- Manage bird feeders and spilled seed, which can attract rodents and other animals that coyotes prey upon.
- Remove brush piles, excessive vegetation and yard debris that can provide wildlife shelter.
- Seal accessible spaces beneath decks, porches and other structures.
- Supervise small pets outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why am I seeing coyotes in Lake Bluff?
Coyotes have adapted well to both natural and developed environments and are found throughout northeastern Illinois. Lake Bluff's open spaces, ravines, wooded areas and surrounding habitat provide opportunities for many kinds of wildlife.
The presence of a coyote by itself does not mean the animal is aggressive or that there is an immediate danger.
Why does a coyote appear to be following me or my dog?
Coyotes may sometimes watch or move alongside people and dogs, particularly when people are near an area the animal is using. This behavior is sometimes described as "escorting."
Do not approach the animal or allow your dog to interact with it. Keep your pet close, calmly leave the area, and use the hazing techniques described above if the coyote approaches or does not maintain its distance.
Can a coyote get into a fenced yard?
Yes. Coyotes are agile animals and may be capable of entering fenced properties. Residents should not rely on a fence alone to protect small pets and should supervise them whenever they are outdoors.
Can I hunt, trap, kill or poison a coyote on my property?
Illinois wildlife laws and regulations govern the hunting, trapping and removal of coyotes. Requirements can vary depending on the circumstances, location and method involved.
Residents should not attempt to poison coyotes. Poison can pose serious risks to pets, other wildlife and people.
Before attempting to capture, remove or kill a coyote, residents should contact the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) or consult current IDNR regulations to understand what is legally permitted.
Click here to learn more from IDNR regarding coyote behavior and tips to avoid conflicts.
Who should I call?
For an immediate threat to human safety, call 911.
For general information about coyotes, wildlife conflicts and recommended prevention techniques, visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources' Wildlife Illinois website.
