Eastern Coyote

Scientific name:   Canis latrans  

Normally nocturnal, coyotes would sometimes hunt during daylight and this is probably why we managed to get this picture. Coyotes have been both admired and maligned but there is no doubt that they are intelligent and resilient. They have the impressive ability to adapt to seemingly hostile environments. Nevertheless, coyotes can be a nuisance or even dangerous because they will eat livestock. If you do find a coyote in your backyard, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources recommends all items that could attract coyotes, such as pet food and garbage. Make sure that you do not leave your small pets alone in the backyard. Normally, clapping and shouting will scare the coyote off your backyard. But if the coyote seems unafraid, you must call the nearest trapper from the Division of Wildlife,  1-800-WILDLIFE (945-3543).