Coyotes are becoming a bigger problem in neighborhoods across America. These smart, adaptable animals have spread to 49 states and aren’t just staying in the wild anymore. They’re moving into suburbs and even cities, looking for easy meals and safe places to live.
If you’ve heard howling at night or worried about your pets being outside, you’re not alone. According to the USDA, there are an estimated 5 million coyotes in the United States, with populations expanding into urban areas. The good news is that there are many ways to keep these unwanted visitors away from your property.
Here are the best coyote repellents and deterrents for you to use at your home and on your property.
Understanding Coyote Behavior
Before choosing the best coyote repellent, it’s helpful to understand how these animals think and act. Coyotes are most active at dawn and dusk, though they can hunt anytime. They’re incredibly smart and can quickly figure out patterns in your routine.
Most urban interactions involve the presence of a dog near a den or the availability of food nearby. This means that if you have pets or leave food sources accessible, you’re more likely to have problems.
Coyotes are also excellent climbers and jumpers. They can clear six-foot fences and have been known to climb even taller barriers. They’re also skilled diggers, so ground-level protection is just as important as height.
Types of Coyote Repellents and Deterrents
There are several different categories of deterrents you can use to keep coyotes away from your property.
1. Scent-Based Solutions
Predator Urine
One of the oldest tricks for keeping coyotes away is using the scent of their natural enemies. Wolf urine is particularly effective because the scent of wolf urine can create a sense of danger for coyotes, making them perceive their environment as more perilous.
You can buy predator urine from hunting supply stores or online. The most common types include:
- Wolf urine (most effective against coyotes)
- Coyote urine (works on smaller animals that coyotes hunt)
- Fox urine (good for general pest control)
Wolf urine is a natural product that doesn’t contain synthetic chemicals, making it safe for the environment and non-toxic to plants and other wildlife when used appropriately.
To use predator urine effectively, soak cotton balls or rags and place them around your property’s perimeter. You’ll need to refresh them regularly, especially after rain. The scent typically lasts about two to three weeks in good weather.
Homemade Scent Repellents
If you prefer making your own coyote repellent, several household ingredients can work well. By using common household ingredients such as hot peppers, garlic, and vinegar, individuals can create a natural and cost-effective repellent to keep coyotes at bay.
Hot Pepper Spray Recipe:
- Mix water with hot pepper flakes or hot sauce
- Add a few drops of dish soap to help it stick
- Spray around your property’s edges
- Reapply after rain or every two weeks
Garlic and Onion Mixture:
- Chop several garlic cloves and one onion
- Soak them in water overnight
- Blend the mixture and strain it
- Spray the liquid around areas you want to protect
Vinegar Solution:
- Mix equal parts water and white vinegar
- Spray around your yard’s perimeter
- The strong smell helps deter many animals
2. Sound and Noise Deterrents
Loud sounds and high-frequency noises can be very effective at scaring coyotes away from your property.
Ultrasonic Devices
Modern technology has given us some powerful tools for keeping coyotes away. A study published in The Journal of Wildlife Management found that ultrasonic deterrent devices reduced coyote activity by 79% in the treated areas.
These devices work because coyotes have sensitive ears as compared to other canine species. Therefore, they do not like high-intensity sounds. The sounds are too high-pitched for humans to hear, but they’re very annoying to coyotes.
When choosing an ultrasonic coyote deterrent, look for:
- Motion activation features
- Solar power options for easy installation
- Weather-resistant housing
- Adjustable frequency settings
Place these devices about 20 to 30 feet apart around your property’s edges. Make sure they’re mounted at the right height (about 3 to 4 feet off the ground) and facing the areas where coyotes might approach.
Loud Noise Makers
Sometimes the old-fashioned approach works best. Portable 120 decibels air horn that can be heard from over a mile away — plenty loud to scare off any coyotes. Air horns are great for immediate protection when you’re walking your dog or spending time outside.
For your property, consider these noise-making options:
- Motion-activated alarms
- Wind chimes (for constant background noise)
- Automatic timer-controlled radios
- Banging pots and pans (for immediate threats)
You can also make simple noise makers at home. One simple homemade method involves tying together several empty tin cans, such as coffee or soup cans, and attaching them to a string or wire. Hang these where the wind will move them or where animals might bump into them.
3. Light-Based Deterrents
Bright lights can disrupt coyote hunting patterns since they prefer to hunt in darkness.
Motion-Activated Lights
Coyotes prefer to hunt in darkness, so bright lights can be very effective at keeping them away. Dog owners across the country use Nite Guard Solar lights as protection from predators like coyotes. The lights are most effective when installed in all four directions at a coyote’s eye level (20-30 inches off the ground).
The key to success with lighting is placement and timing. Install lights so they cover all possible approach routes to your property. Motion sensors should be sensitive enough to detect animals but not so sensitive that they’re triggered by small movements like leaves blowing.
Continuous Flashing Lights
Some products work differently than motion-activated lights. Instead of being motion activated, Nite Guard Solar lights automatically turn on at dusk and continue to flash all night, making sure that coyotes don’t get close.
These constant-flashing lights can be more effective than motion lights because they create a continuous deterrent rather than just responding to movement. Coyotes are smart enough to figure out motion sensor patterns, but constant flashing keeps them guessing.
Physical Barriers and Fencing
Building proper barriers is often the most reliable long-term solution for keeping coyotes out.
Proper Fence Height and Design
If you want the best coyote deterrent for long-term protection, a well-designed fence is hard to beat. Most coyote-proof fencing should be about 8 feet tall since most strong adult coyotes jump up to 6 feet high.
But height alone isn’t enough. You also need to think about digging. Coyotes can also dig into the ground to bypass fencing. Therefore, the lowest electric wire should be buried at least 6 inches underneath the ground.
Here are the key requirements for effective coyote fencing:
- Minimum 6 feet tall (8 feet is better)
- Bury 12 to 18 inches underground
- Use mesh no larger than 4 inches
- Add angled tops or rollers to prevent climbing
Special Fence Features
Coyote Rollers are one of the best additions you can make to an existing fence. Coyote rollers are aluminum cylinders that attach to the top of your fence. When a coyote tries to grab the top of the fence to pull itself over, the roller spins and they can’t get a grip.
Electric Wire can be added to almost any fence type. Run a hot wire about 6 inches above your main fence and another one close to the ground. This creates a psychological barrier that’s very effective at keeping coyotes away.
Angled Overhangs work like coyote rollers but are permanently attached. Build a 45-degree overhang that extends 2 to 3 feet from the top of your fence. This makes it nearly impossible for animals to climb over.
Motion-Activated Water Sprinklers
Water sprinklers might sound simple, but they’re backed by solid science. Sprinklers significantly reduced the daily mean number of coyote visits during the deterrent phase compared to the pre-deterrent phase.
The Orbit Yard Enforcer is one of the most popular options. The Orbit Yard Enforcer is a very effective garden security device that can even double as a watering tool! It’s easy to install, and it features an infrared “eye” that can distinguish between animals and things like trees blowing in the wind.
These devices work because:
- The sudden spray startles animals
- Coyotes don’t like getting wet
- The noise of the sprinkler adds an extra deterrent
- They work day and night
- Most can tell the difference between animals and false triggers
Place sprinklers to cover the most likely approach routes to your property. Make sure they have good water pressure and test them regularly to ensure they’re working properly.
Personal Protection Tools
When you’re outside or walking your dog, having immediate deterrent options gives you peace of mind.
Pepper Spray
When you’re out walking or working in your yard, personal protection tools give you immediate defense options. SABRE Maximum Strength Protector Pepper Spray is one of the most concentrated pepper spray products on the market and features a 15-foot range for long-distance protection with 1.0% Major Capsaicinoids (the maximum strength allowed by the EPA).
Pepper spray works well against coyotes, but you need to be careful if you have pets with you. The spray can affect your dog too if you’re not careful about wind direction and overspray.
Walking and Hazing Tools
Hazing is a technique used to scare coyotes and teach them to avoid humans. An easy-to-carry scare stick, made by tying mylar ribbon to a stick, confuses a coyote when you wave it vigorously out in front of you.
Other effective hazing tools include:
- Whistles or small air horns
- Noise-making shakers (cans with coins)
- Squirt guns with vinegar water
- Large trash bags to make yourself look bigger
- Walking sticks for pointing and making noise
Effective Coyote Hazing Techniques
Hazing is an active approach that teaches coyotes to fear and avoid humans through startling experiences.
Understanding the Basics
Hazing is a method that makes use of deterrents to move an animal out of an area or discourage undesirable behavior or activity. The goal isn’t to hurt the coyote but to make it uncomfortable and teach it to avoid humans.
Hazing can help maintain a coyote’s fear of humans and deter them from backyards and play spaces. This is important because coyotes that lose their fear of people become much more dangerous and harder to manage.
How to Haze Effectively
The most basic hazing technique is simple but effective. The simplest method of hazing a coyote involves being loud and large: Stand tall, wave your arms and yell at the coyote, approaching them if necessary, until they run away.
Here’s what you should do if you see a coyote:
- Don’t run away or turn your back
- Make yourself look as large as possible
- Make loud noises (yell, clap, blow a whistle)
- Throw objects near (not at) the coyote
- Keep approaching until it leaves completely
Tools for Hazing
Using a variety of different hazing tools is critical; coyotes can habituate to individual items, sounds and actions. Here are the most effective options:
Noise Makers:
- Whistles and air horns
- Pots and pans banged together
- Cans filled with coins or marbles
- Your own voice (yelling works great)
Projectiles:
- Small rocks or sticks
- Tennis balls
- Empty cans
- Anything you can throw near the animal
Other Tools:
- Garden hoses or spray bottles
- Pepper spray or bear spray
- Large sticks for pointing and noise
- Anything that makes you look bigger
Scientific Evidence
Research shows that hazing really works when done correctly. Results showed the number of times coyotes approached and experienced hazing decreased over time. This suggests that coyotes that have been hazed learn to avoid behaviors.
However, the study also found that coyotes that were fed or were followed by a person with a dog were more likely to approach a person even if it resulted in being hazed. This shows why it’s so important not to feed coyotes and to be extra careful when walking dogs.
Removing Attractants from Your Property
The most effective prevention starts with eliminating the things that draw coyotes to your area in the first place.
Food Sources
The best coyote repellent is often just removing what draws them to your property in the first place. Coyotes will eat just about anything, so it’s important to keep your garbage tightly sealed in an animal-proof container that’s not easily accessible.
Here’s what you need to secure:
- Garbage cans (use tight-fitting lids or bungee cords)
- Pet food (bring bowls inside after meals)
- Bird feeders (store them at night)
- Compost piles (keep them covered)
- Fallen fruit from trees
- Barbecue grills (clean them thoroughly)
If you feed your dog outside, bring in any dog food or water bowls once they’ve finished their meal for the day. Even small amounts of leftover food can attract coyotes and other wildlife.
Water Sources
Coyotes need water just like any other animal. While you can’t eliminate all water sources, you can make your property less attractive by:
- Fixing leaky outdoor faucets
- Emptying kiddie pools when not in use
- Keeping swimming pools covered
- Removing standing water from flower pots and containers
Shelter and Cover
Coyotes like places where they can hide and feel safe. Reduce cover around your property by:
- Trimming bushes and shrubs
- Removing brush piles and debris
- Cutting tall grass regularly
- Sealing gaps under porches and sheds
- Keeping woodpiles neat and compact
Combination Strategies That Work Best
Using multiple deterrent methods together creates a much stronger defense than relying on just one approach.
Why Multiple Methods Matter
No single coyote deterrent works 100% of the time. Using a variety of different hazing tools is critical so that coyotes don’t get used to redundant or single stimulus devices, sounds and actions.
Coyotes are smart animals that can adapt to patterns. If you only use one type of deterrent, they might figure out how to work around it. But when you combine several different methods, it becomes much harder for them to adapt.
Effective Combinations
The Perimeter Defense:
- 6-foot fence with buried mesh
- Motion-activated lights every 50 feet
- Ultrasonic devices at corners
- Scent deterrents refreshed monthly
The Active Property Protection:
- Motion-activated sprinklers in key areas
- Combination of light and sound devices
- Regular hazing when coyotes are spotted
- Elimination of all food sources
The Personal Protection Kit:
- Pepper spray for emergencies
- Air horn or whistle for hazing
- Bright flashlight for night walks
- Noise-making shakers
Layered Defense Systems
Think of coyote control like home security. You want multiple layers of protection:
Outer Layer: Perimeter fencing and lighting Middle Layer: Motion sensors and sprinklers Inner Layer: Personal protection tools and hazing
Each layer makes it harder for coyotes to reach your family, pets, and property. Even if they get past one deterrent, the others are still working.
Top Product Recommendations
Here are some of the most effective commercial products and DIY solutions based on user reviews and scientific testing.
Commercial Repellent Products
Predator Pee Products: These are among the most popular and effective scent-based deterrents. They come in several forms including liquid sprays, granules, and scent posts. The wolf urine varieties tend to work best against coyotes.
Nite Guard Solar Lights: These solar-powered flashing lights have gotten excellent reviews from users. They automatically turn on at dusk and flash all night. Many people report success with these lights after trying other methods that didn’t work.
SABRE Pepper Spray: For personal protection, this is one of the strongest options available. The 15-foot range gives you distance, and the high concentration is effective against large animals like coyotes.
Motion-Activated Systems
Orbit Yard Enforcer Sprinkler: This is consistently rated as one of the best motion-activated sprinklers for animal control. It can distinguish between animals and false triggers like wind-blown branches.
Ultrasonic Repellers: Look for solar-powered models with adjustable frequencies. The best ones can cover large areas and have weather-resistant housings.
DIY vs. Commercial Solutions
Homemade solutions can be just as effective as commercial products for many situations. One of the main benefits of homemade deterrents is their non-toxic nature, making them safe for use around children, pets, and wildlife.
When to Choose DIY:
- You’re on a tight budget
- You prefer natural, non-toxic solutions
- You want to customize the approach
- You enjoy making things yourself
When to Choose Commercial:
- You want proven effectiveness
- You need long-lasting solutions
- You want professional-grade strength
- You don’t have time to make your own
Safety Considerations
When setting up deterrent systems, keeping your family and pets safe should always be the top priority.
Protecting Your Family and Pets
When setting up any coyote repellent system, safety should be your top priority. Some important considerations:
Chemical Safety:
- Store all repellents away from children
- Read labels carefully before using
- Don’t mix different chemicals
- Use gloves when applying scent deterrents
Equipment Safety:
- Install electrical devices properly
- Keep battery-powered items dry
- Check motion sensors regularly
- Make sure fence installations are secure
Pet Considerations:
- Some ultrasonic devices might bother your pets
- Pepper spray can affect your own animals
- Make sure fence gaps are too small for pets to escape
- Train pets to avoid deterrent devices
Legal and Neighbor Considerations
Before installing extensive deterrent systems, check your local regulations. Some areas have restrictions on:
- Fence heights and types
- Noise levels from alarms
- Use of certain repellent chemicals
- Lighting that might bother neighbors
It’s also a good idea to talk to your neighbors about your plans. Coyote problems often affect entire neighborhoods, so working together makes everyone’s efforts more effective.
Maintenance and Long-Term Success
Keeping your deterrent systems working effectively requires regular attention and occasional updates.
Keeping Systems Working
You can make all the noises, shine all the lights, and spread all the urine you want, but these actions will have to be taken time and time again to maintain their effectiveness.
Regular maintenance tasks include:
- Refreshing scent deterrents every 2-3 weeks
- Checking battery levels in electronic devices
- Cleaning motion sensor lenses
- Testing sprinkler systems monthly
- Inspecting fences for damage
- Rotating deterrent types to prevent habituation
Seasonal Adjustments
Coyote behavior changes with the seasons, so your deterrent strategy should too:
- Spring: Coyotes are raising pups and may be more aggressive
- Summer: They’re most active and looking for water sources
- Fall: They’re preparing for winter and eating more
- Winter: Food is scarce, making them more likely to approach homes
Adjust your deterrent intensity and focus areas based on seasonal patterns in your area.
Monitoring Effectiveness
Keep track of what works and what doesn’t. Simple ways to monitor include:
- Security cameras to record animal activity
- Tracking apps on your phone for sightings
- Regular property walks to look for signs
- Talking with neighbors about their experiences
If something stops working, don’t wait to try something new. Coyotes can adapt quickly, so you need to stay one step ahead.
When to Call for Professional Help
Sometimes the situation requires expertise and tools that go beyond what homeowners can handle on their own.
Recognizing Serious Problems
Sometimes DIY solutions aren’t enough. Call wildlife professionals if you see:
- Coyotes active during daylight hours
- Animals that don’t respond to hazing
- Coyotes approaching people or pets
- Evidence of den sites on your property
- Aggressive behavior toward humans
What Professionals Can Do
Wildlife management experts have tools and techniques that aren’t available to homeowners. They can:
- Assess your specific situation
- Recommend targeted solutions
- Install professional-grade systems
- Provide ongoing monitoring
- Work with local authorities if needed
Don’t wait too long to get help if you’re dealing with persistent problems. Early intervention is always more effective than waiting until the situation gets worse.
Final Thoughts
Keeping coyotes away from your property requires patience, consistency, and often multiple approaches. The best coyote deterrent for your situation depends on your specific circumstances, budget, and local coyote behavior patterns.
Remember these key points:
- Start with removing attractants
- Use multiple deterrent types together
- Maintain your systems regularly
- Be prepared to adjust your approach
- Don’t hesitate to get professional help when needed
With the right combination of deterrents and consistent effort, you can successfully keep coyotes away from your family, pets, and property. The key is to start early, stay consistent, and be willing to adapt your approach as needed.
Coyote management is an ongoing process, not a one-time fix. But with the information and tools covered in this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to create a safe, coyote-free environment around your home.
