Local coyote sightings spike with winter

Coyote sightings are very common in Rio Rancho, and the winter months are no different.

According to the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, coyotes are more conspicuous throughout the winter months.

“They typically have to range farther to find food and to find a mate during their mid-winter breeding season,” said Darren Vaughan, the communications director for NM Game and Fish. “Coyotes are becoming a more common part of our developed environments, where they are adapting to the risks of being around people and vehicles to capitalize on the food sources that humans create.”

Coyotes can be seen crossing roads, wandering into neighborhoods and just about anywhere in the Rio Rancho area.

“It is not normal for a coyote to be comfortable around humans. This is a sign of a coyote that has become habituated to human presence or has associated humans with food, and that is an unsafe situation for both human and animal,” Vaughan said.

If a coyote poses an immediate threat, residents are encouraged to contact their local Department of Game and Fish conservation officer. Contact information for conservation officers can be found here.

If a coyote poses a serious safety threat, call 911 immediately.

“If people notice coyotes near their homes, they should take precautions to keep small pets safe outdoors and remove any potential food sources that could attract coyotes in addition to keeping a safe distance from the animal(s),” Vaughan said.

For additional safety tips, view the NM Department of Game and Fish brochure, “Living with Large Predators.” For a link to the brochure, click here.