Back in August and September 2017, I had an incredible experience encountering three coyote pups at the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma. At first, I was thrilled to spot one of the pups sleeping near the side of the auto tour road. I stopped to take a couple photos, excited for the rare opportunity.
Coyote Pup Resting
Coyote Pup Sleeping
However, the more I thought about it, the more concerned I became. These three pups seemed very comfortable around humans, letting people take close-up photos. Coyotes that have no fear of humans can be dangerous for both species. I worried these pups were becoming too habituated.
Out of concern for their safety, I didn’t share the photos on my blog at the time. I wanted to protect the location of these wild pups. Now, a few years later, I feel it’s appropriate to share these images from this memorable encounter.
Coyote Pup Sitting On The Auto Tour Road
Coyote Pup Watching Birds
Three Coyote Pups Playing
I often wondered what happened to those three pups. Did they survive their first year and learn proper wariness around humans? This summer, I was happy to spot four coyote pups at the refuge once again. However, these new pups have been much more elusive, showing healthy shyness.
Getting a photo has proven difficult, but I was finally able to capture a distant shot of one pup. While a closer encounter would make a more dramatic photo, I’m relieved they keep their distance.
What To Do If You Find a Coyote Pup
If you come across coyote pups, here are some tips:
- Observe from at least 100 feet away. Resist the urge to approach or feed them.
- Do not touch or handle the pups. Like many young wildlife, they could carry diseases or parasites transmissible to humans.
- Do not take one home thinking it’s abandoned. Coyote parents often leave pups alone for long periods while they hunt.
- If you have concerns, contact your state wildlife agency for guidance before intervening.
- Educate others on giving wild animals space. Pups that become habituated to humans often have poor survival outcomes.
- Appreciate the rare privilege of seeing pups, but be respectful of wild animals’ space and needs.
Let’s all work to keep coyotes wild by not habituating them to human presence. Both coyote and human safety relies on wariness on both sides. I feel fortunate for the experience seeing those pups in 2017, but feel better knowing this new generation shows more natural shyness.