Coyote safety and practical prevention in Arizona.

I saw a coyote

Seeing a coyote, including during daylight, does not by itself mean the animal is dangerous. Keep a safe distance, do not feed or approach it, and give it space to move away. Pay attention to behavior rather than the sighting alone.

Read sighting guidance and print observation notes →

A coyote keeps visiting my yard

Check for food, accessible garbage, outdoor pet food, fallen fruit, and other attractants. Look for openings and assess barriers. If behavior escalates or you feel unsafe, consult local wildlife authorities for guidance.

Read yard prevention guidance and print checklist →

I'm worried about my pet or service animal

Keep pets supervised outdoors, use an appropriate leash, and check yards before allowing pets outside. Consider routes, lighting, and safe alternatives for handlers who cannot use conventional deterrents.

Read pet and service-animal safety guidance →

My pet was attacked or injured

Move yourself and surviving animals to safety without approaching or pursuing wildlife. Seek prompt veterinary care for injured pets. Document the incident from a safe location and contact the appropriate agency if needed. AUCA cannot dispatch responders.

Read post-incident steps and print documentation worksheet →

I found a sick or injured coyote

Observe from a distance. Do not approach, touch, capture, feed, or attempt to diagnose the animal from its appearance. Consult an appropriate wildlife authority; not every rehabilitator accepts coyotes.

Read safe observation and reporting guidance →

I need an accessible safety option

You should not have to rely on running, chasing wildlife, or physically demanding hazing. Prioritize distance, secure barriers, supervised animal access, assistance from trusted people when available, and agency guidance. Contact AUCA for general educational questions; direct home assistance is not yet an active service.

Read accessible alternatives and print planning sheet →

Prevent attractants

Secure garbage, avoid feeding wildlife, remove outdoor pet food, and clean up fallen fruit where applicable.

Protect pets

Supervise small pets outdoors, use leashes on walks, and avoid leaving pets unattended in areas where wildlife may travel.

Give wildlife space

Do not approach, corner, touch, or attempt to capture a coyote. Give animals room to leave.

Respond carefully

Appropriate responses depend on the animal's behavior and local agency guidance. Do not use techniques that put people or wildlife at risk.

Ill or injured animals

Do not attempt a diagnosis from appearance or handle a sick or injured animal. Contact the appropriate wildlife authority for guidance.

Immediate emergencies

For an immediate threat to human safety, contact emergency services. AUCA does not dispatch emergency responders.