COYOTES ATTACK KIDS
Small dogs, cats and even toddlers have been attacked by coyotes throughout Canada and the United States for years. Communities are now beginning to realize that they cannot leave small pets or toddlers alone in their yards because the risks are enormous.
There are resident coyotes living in packs throughout North America and they intend absolutely no malice – they are doing what comes natural to a wild animal in order to feed its young.
In the state of Florida, Coyotes are not a protected animal. There is no closed season on coyotes, and no specific regulations regarding the choice of firearms or bows used to kill them. Captured coyotes must be killed, and cannot legally be relocated to public land. Coyotes are considered as “naturalized” parts of Florida’s ecosystem1
In Winter Park, Florida for instance, you will need a hunting license to shoot a coyote even on your own private property in Florida. Coyotes feed on rabbits, possum, rats, birds and cats and they don’t care if the cats are feral or domesticated pets!
Therefore, it is generally a wise idea to get a hunting license. And, you’ll also need written permission from the property owner to shoot a coyote even if you have a hunting license. Coyotes may be taken as a furbearer year-round on private property with landowner permission by rifle, shotgun, pistol, muzzleloader, air gun, cross bow, or bow. However, it is important to check with the local police department or sheriff’s office about the legality of discharging a firearm in certain urban areas 12.
If you venture to let your cat out – you are doing so at your own risk. There are no laws that protect your cats – none! And when coyotes or even raccoons, are rabid or in heat, they are even more aggressive. However, it is doubtful that the authorities want homeowners out in their yards in any neighborhoods shooting anything at all.
