STORY AND PHOTO BY KAREN BOSSICK

A group of coyotes fatally attacked a dog at a residence in Elkhorn this week.

Residents have described instances of coyotes exhibiting aggressive  behavior towards dogs being walked on leash there.

Coyotes pose a risk to dogs when they review them as a prey source or as competition, Idaho Fish and Game officials say. The risk increases during mating season from February through early March and during  pupping season from March through May when coyotes, particularly males become more aggressive and protective of their dens.

Coyotes are highly adaptable animals that can be found living and denning in city parks and along urban river  corridors, which have good cover for hiding and abundant prey species. They’re even frequently spotted in cities like Chicago where there is an abundant rat population for them to feed on.

They’re generally most active at night, although in the Wood River Valley they seem to have no qualms about coming out in the day.

Coyotes have been known to be aggressive on Dollar Mountain during spring and summer, sometimes luring dogs to them and then trying to attack. They often have dens in the Greenhorn area—hence the name “Coyote” for one of the popular hiking trails there. But, there, they generally just yip to scare dogs and people away from their dens.

They have been seen crossing the Nordic trails at Sun Valley Nordic Center this winter, stopping to size up the skiers and moving on only when the skiers make a move. And a few years ago, dog owners reported aggressive coyotes in Champions Meadow on Sun Valley Road.

TO KEEP PETS SAFE AND PREVENT COYOTES FROM BECOMING HABITUATED TO HUMANS:

Remove or secure pet food, trash and dog feces.

Enclose backyard poultry and other small animals that live outside with secure fencing and a roof.

Let dogs out for bathroom breaks only in fenced areas.

If properties are not fenced, turn on outside lights and make noise before letting dogs outside. Consider taking dogs out on leash for nighttime bathroom breaks.

Clear away brush areas round the property that coyotes may see as safe denning or hiding spots.

WHEN HIKING:

Keep dogs on leash.

Use a loud noisemaker, such as a whistle, bell or horn to scare off the coyote.

Carry bear spray and know how to use it—it’s not just for bears.

Make noise to announce your presence.

Consider using a different trail system if you know coyotes are present.

Report incidents involving aggressive coyotes to the Idaho Fish and Game-Magic Valley Regional Office at 208-324-4359.