20-03-2025
Portlanders should give coyotes ‘a little extra space' amid pupping season
PORTLAND, Ore. () — Although coyotes are spotted in Portland all year round, researchers advise humans to be especially vigilant during any potential sightings throughout the spring.
Portland Urban Coyote Project Director Zuriel van Belle described the period from March to May as 'pupping season': when litters of coyote pups are born across the metro area.
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'As we get into pupping season, if a coyote is near its den where it might have pups or be close to having pups, it's gonna feel a little more territorial,' van Belle said.
While the director tells people to leave coyotes alone if they're 'minding their own business,' she advises them to make loud noises — potentially by smashing pots or whistling — to keep the animals wild and push them to keep their distance from humans.
She emphasized this even more for those with pets, expressing the need for dogs to be leashed because they could come across an overprotective parent.
The Portland Urban Coyote Project has been tracking sightings since 2008, when a 'very noticeable coyote' sparked interest in the Alameda neighborhood. Some residents may have thought the incident was a novelty, but researchers say the species has a presence in many major North American cities.
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The project receives about 2,000 reports annually, according to the director. She noted that more reports come in during the fall and winter months, partially because that's when younger coyotes start to venture out on their own.
'They aren't as savvy yet. They're figuring out where they are going to be, and territories are potentially being renegotiated, so it might be more likely to see them,' van Belle said.
She added that coyotes could be more visible in the colder months due to the diminishing tree cover impacting their usual hiding spots. In addition, winter snow makes them easier to spot due to the contrast with their fur.
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Outside of the neighborhood that sparked the Portland Urban Coyote Project, the director said the organization receives a higher number of reports from the Multnomah Village and Hillsdale neighborhoods. Researchers suspect this is because the animals are more 'habituated' in these areas, or due to awareness of the project.
Regardless of the time of year, van Belle urges people to protect their pets and remove any potential food sources for the coyotes.
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