Coyote

[Tink]

Since coyotes are actually wild dogs, they can breed and produce fertile offspring- the only thing preventing a widespread influx of "coydogs" is the fact that coyotes have a specific mating season (around January) and the rest of the year they're sterile. So when your females are in heat do NOT let them outside as the coyotes will come to the scent just as a neighbors dog would. Especially in January!

Another major thing when trying to keep coyotes away is not to let them find any food outside. They will come to find dog food, chickens, dogs, cats, rabbits, or whatever is easily available to them. Once they're used to people being around them they just get bolder... which increases the chance of problems.

If you're able to keep them afraid of you it's better for you and them. IF you find them coming in closer, make noise, act threatening and fearless and they will usually turn tail and run. Firecrackers are a great deterant.