In cooperation with Cleveland State University
A graduate student and volunteers are listening for coyotes in North Chagrin, Bedford, and West Creek reservations to learn more about the numbers and locations of coyotes in the Park District. Coyotes are present throughout northeastern Ohio, and they can be found (or heard) in nearly all Cleveland Metroparks reservations. Under strict guidance of Natural Resource Division staff, the student uses recorded calls to entice these animals to howl, thus giving away their approximate location and numbers. Using a geographical information system and aerial photography, the student is hoping estimate home ranges and population sizes in these reservations.
Coyotes have adapted easily to urban environments because of their varied diets and ability to construct dens or utilize human structures for homes. Coyotes are normally very wary of human beings. However, in urban areas there are less threats from hunting and trapping and more likely to associate people with an easy and dependable source for food. Under these circumstances, they can become very bold. They will visit homes regularly if food is regularly present. Coyotes have learned that pet food left outdoors and small dogs and cats are easy prey. Newspapers across the country have carried stories of coyotes harassing leashed dogs on walks with their owners in and near parks and golf courses within city limits. For additional coyote information, see our Featured Animal web page.