Dupage Policy Journal

Late winter marks the mating season for coyotes, prompting the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County to remind residents that sightings of these animals are not uncommon as they search for mates and monitor their territories.

“Just because you see a coyote isn’t a cause for alarm. Consider yourself lucky, and enjoy the rare opportunity to observe it from a safe distance,” said Forest Preserve District ecologist Dan Thompson. “Whether you see them or not, coyotes are all around, and the more we can understand they’re just trying to live their lives, the more we can safely share our neighborhoods.”

Coyotes play an essential role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling populations of rodents and other small animals. During winter, they may be easier to spot on snowy landscapes or in areas with limited vegetation.

Thompson noted that while coyotes might appear intimidating due to their size and boldness during this season, they generally avoid humans. “They may view other canines, including dogs, as competition. Likewise, they might approach a female dog in heat as a potential mate,” he explained.

He suggested simple practices to minimize encounters with coyotes. In DuPage County, coyote breeding season peaks in late February or early March. Litters are born in April, with young raised in dens until late June. These dens are often vacant fox or woodchuck burrows but can also be found under log piles or in hollow trees.

Female coyotes typically start mating in their second year and are receptive to males' advances for about a week during this period. Coyotes are generally monogamous and seek new partners only when their previous ones die. A multiyear study of urban coyotes in Chicago revealed no genetic evidence of polygamy or abandonment while both partners were alive.

“Coyote encounters can happen any time of year, but we tend to see an increase during the fall dispersal and now as we move into breeding and pup rearing seasons," Thompson said. "We can’t reiterate it enough that more often than not these encounters occur without incident, but that doesn’t mean pet owners should leave their dogs unleashed or unattended.”

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County has been connecting people to nature for over 100 years. More than 6.2 million people visit its 60 forest preserves annually.

For information, call 630-933-7200 or visit dupageforest.org.