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Coyote Behavior Map

Track reported coyote sightings and encounters across Jefferson County.

This map displays 2026 coyote activity reported to the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office Animal Control unit. Yellow markers indicate sightings — a coyote was observed but no conflict occurred. Orange markers indicate encounters — direct interaction between a coyote and a person or pet. Click any marker for details.

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Coyote Safety

Prevention

  • Never feed coyotes — it removes their natural fear of humans
  • Keep small pets indoors or supervised, especially at dawn and dusk
  • Secure trash cans and remove outdoor pet food
  • Keep yards clear of fallen fruit and birdseed
  • Walk dogs on a leash, especially in areas with known coyote activity
  • Remove attractants like shrubs, woodpiles, decks, or any structure that can provide cover or be used as a den
  • Free-roaming dogs and cats, and/or female dogs in heat are attractants

It is unlawful to feed or intentionally attract coyotes in Jefferson County (Colorado Parks and Wildlife Regulation #021). Report people feeding coyotes to Colorado Parks & Wildlife at (303) 291-7227.

Hazing Techniques

If a coyote approaches, use hazing to reinforce their natural wariness of people:

  • Be as big and loud as possible
  • Wave your arms, clap, and throw objects at the coyote
  • Shout in a loud and authoritative voice
  • Do not run or turn your back on the coyote
  • Face the coyote and back away slowly

Deterrents to carry: rocks, vinegar in a water gun, paintballs, air horns, or a repellent spray (such as Citronella or pepper spray).

Teach Children

  • Never approach wild animals or dogs you don't know!
  • If a coyote approaches, wave your arms, stomp your feet, and loudly tell it to go away!
  • Call for help
  • If the animal doesn't leave, walk out of the area, keeping the animal in sight
More wildlife safety information

Protect Your Pets

Coyotes may view domestic pets as a food source and large dogs as a threat or possible mate. Coyotes have taken pets from backyards, open spaces, and even off-leash areas. Keep your pet current on vaccinations.

Cats

The only way to guarantee your cat's safety is to keep it indoors. Outdoor cats also face threats from cars, diseases, foxes, parasites, raccoons, dogs, and birds of prey, such as owls.

Dogs

  • Always supervise your pet outside, especially at dawn and dusk
  • Keep your dog on a short leash while recreating — avoid retractable leashes
  • Do not allow your dog off-leash
  • Do not allow your dog to play or interact with a coyote
  • If possible, pick up your dog when coyotes are visible
  • Avoid known or potential den sites and thick vegetation
  • If you must leave your dog outside, secure it in a fully enclosed kennel

Report Coyote Activity

In case of a coyote attack on a human, call 911.

Notification will be made to Colorado Parks and Wildlife to track and/or destroy the animal.

All reports are anonymous — your name and address will not appear on the coyote behavior map.

You may also report coyote behavior online, but this is not monitored 24/7. For fastest service, please call.

Animal Control

(303) 271-5070

After hours: (303) 980-7300

Report aggressive coyotes, coyote encounters with pets, or unusual coyote behavior.

Resources

For additional coyote information and community resources:

Historical Coyote Behavior Maps

Browse past years' coyote activity maps to view historical sighting and encounter data across Jefferson County.

Coyote Safety Videos