Coyotes making presence known on Daniel Island

For island resident Tara Meyer, the normal routine of her husband walking her dog became a nightmare one evening last week.

“A large Coyote attacked our Boykin Spaniel across the street from our house. They rolled around on the ground and our Boykin got away with the coyote still chasing her,” says Meyer. Meyer’s husband spooked the coyote enough to end the fight, but the fact that the coyote was still trying to come after her dog made the situation that much scarier.

The coyote sightings on Daniel Island seem to be on the increase as more and more land is developed.

Coyotes’ habitats consist of wooded areas, often near marsh, and they frequently dig holes to use as dens. When areas are being developed like parts of Daniel Island are, coyotes are forced to move.

“We have definitely seen more coyotes recently than in the past,” said John Newland with Critter Control in Charleston, a national company that specializes in animal control.
“Five years ago we hardly saw any in this area.”

Learning to cohabitate with wild animals brings anxiety to many people. As was seen on the Daniel Island Moms Facebook page last week, several residents from one end of the island to the other have either witnessed seeing a coyote first hand or have heard the howls, and occasionally the not-so-pleasant attacks on animals, during the night.

So what can we do to protect our pets (and even our young children) if paths are crossed with a coyote?

“Don’t run away from a coyote,” say Newland. “They can smell and feel fear and that is what they are attracted to.” Instead, he says to stand your ground.
“Make as much noise as you can!”

Newland also advises residents to learn as much as they can about wildlife that lives on the island. You can find information about local wildlife from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) online and specifically about coyotes at http://www.dnr.sc.gov/wildlife/publications/nuisance/coyotes.pdf.

Removal with traps has been used in the past, however Newland says it is very tough.

“Coyotes have an amazing sense of smell and if there is any scent on the trap, they will stay away. They are very smart,” states Newland.

Again, he stresses that education is the key.

“Be proactive instead of reactive. Learn about their habitats, what they like to eat,” says Newland. He also recommends keeping yards free of food and don’t leave pets unattended, even if you have a fenced in yard.
“Coyotes will jump or climb a fence if there is something they want,” states Newland.

For Meyer the encounter with the coyote had a good outcome, little Ella was ok. However, Meyer encourages residents to pay attention and know their surroundings.
“I guess what I’m trying to say for those of you who have lived here for years and are used to living with them but have never had a problem, please know that with all of the clearing that is going on here on what used to be a paradise, not only are the deer, birds, and endearing creatures being displaced, so are they. And they are looking for food!”