Coyote 101?

[chicamama]

So, with the passing of my old shepherd a few weeks back, the coyotes are now getting really bold. Lilled 4 chickens last week. No more day time outings for now. My hens are grumpy, but it's for their safety. My young female shepherd (1 year) chased one (coyote) into the bush only to come running back with one chasing her

She's still getting her footing on being *top dog* (and trust me, I was less then 25 yards away when she ran after the coyote).

Anyway, we're picking up a new Cattle Dog puppy ths weekend, and soon, between the cattle dog and my shepherd, we should be coyote free again. Till then, the chickens are on house arrest.

All said, I was SHOCKED at the downright boldness of the coyotes (soon joined by another). Both curled up and relaxed on the hill not more then 20 feet from my coop and 50 yard from me and my dh. THEY SCRATCHED fleas and yawned. Almost made me get out of hotub and chase them myself!

Any thoughts?(and no, shooting them is not an option where I live)

 

[CoyoteMagic]

We are rather bold! It's just part of our charming personality!!

How old is your young shepherd? Coyotes will drawl out one dog to chase them then attack in mass when they have the dog away from their own pack.

Keep your dogs in unless you are out with them.


ETA--Coyotes learn from their mistakes an will try another tactic to get your dogs away from the coop next time. May I suggest that while you are getting the puppy, get 2. That way when 2 of your dogs go off to chase the coyotes away there is always 1 more still guarding the coop so one doesn't double back on you.

 

[Punk-Rock_Chicken]

Get a pitbull. Good Pit= No coyote.

 

[Mahonri]

50 yards. You could pic them off without a scope.