Coyotes are a common predator in southern Ontario. They’ve adapted well to urban development and can live closely with humans. Coyotes benefit the ecosystem by controlling small rodent populations. However, they’re dangerous to livestock, attacking goats, sheep and calves. Here are some ways to protect your livestock from coyote attacks.
Install Fencing
Coyotes are extremely intelligent and almost impossible to trap. Therefore, the best coyote deterrent is a solid fence around your farm. Coyotes can leap as high as 1.5 metres, so you’ll need a fence between 1.8 and two metres high. Additionally, coyotes can dig and slip through narrow openings at the bottom of your fence, so ensure it’s tight to the ground.
The best material is woven wire fencing, as coyotes can easily slip through tensile wire fencing. Welded wire mesh or woven no-climb fences are excellent options. Moreover, ensure your farm gate is made with a durable mesh, is high enough and has no gaps below or beside it.
Inspect and Maintain Fencing
Weather, foliage and stress from animals and wildlife can degrade even the most durable fence over time. It’s essential to regularly inspect your perimeter to look for narrow gaps or tears in the wire mesh that coyotes can slip through. Repair these gaps as soon as possible.
Other Deterrents
Besides fencing, a few other options can help protect your livestock from coyotes.
Scarecrows. Coyotes are non-confrontational. They may live near humans but are also wary of human interaction. A scarecrow can keep the coyotes at bay for a while, but it won’t be long before these intelligent creatures figure out it’s not a threat.
Fladry. Attaching red flags on your fencing can make coyotes skittish enough that they won’t try to enter your pastures. However, like a scarecrow, it’s only a temporary solution.
Dogs. A large dog is an effective means of deterring coyotes. Other protective animals include llamas and donkeys.
Protect newborns. Coyotes take advantage of babies rather than adult livestock. Keep expectant mothers and newborn animals in a barn or other enclosure.
Also, ensure your household garbage and compost are stored in sealed containers away from your animals. Coyotes are opportunistic omnivores and will eat anything they find.
Farm Animal Fencing in Southern Ontario
At Ontario Wholesale Farm Direct, we offer a wide range of farming equipment and farm fence solutions to protect your livestock, whether you have a hobby farm or a large-scale operation. As a wholesaler, we have some of the best prices in southern Ontario. Shop online, and we’ll deliver your fencing materials to your door. Contact us today to learn more about our products.