Some hunting seasons wind down while coyote hunting heats up

Coyote hunting offers challenging and exciting opportunities

Deer season has concluded for another year and most other seasons have wrapped up too, so what are hunters to do? Repair hunting equipment? Clean guns? Fight cabin fever? According to the ODNR Division of Wildlife, coyote hunting is a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors this time of year while helping to keep the coyote population in check.

"Now is an excellent time to hunt coyotes; they are much more active due to breeding season (which generally takes place from January through March). They are also covering more territory in search of food sources," says Scott Peters, assistant wildlife management supervisor for northeast Ohio.

"Since the 1980s, coyotes have been documented in all 88 counties of Ohio. These wary furbearers are fairly common nowadays and well distributed throughout the state making them an accessible game species," explains Peters. "They don't have any natural predators in the state besides humans; therefore hunting helps reduce populations thereby reducing the risks of disease, starvation, and conflict situations."

Typical methods of hunting coyotes include using lures or calls which sometimes yield other predators as well. Peters points out, "We've received reports of both red and gray foxes as well as bobcats being seen by coyote hunters. Fox season ends on January 31 and bobcats are a protected species in this state, but it is an exciting experience, witnessing these fascinating species." Hunters should note that during fox season, a fur taker permit is required. Coyote hunting is open all year round and even during deer gun seasons as long as hunters carry a valid deer permit during that time.

A wealth of information on hunting coyotes and other varmints is available via books, magazines, DVDs, or online sources. Hunters should also visit local hunting supply stores and outdoor outfitters where experts are available to offer advice on hunting tactics, calls, and other information.

For more information contact Wildlife District Three in Akron at 330-644-2293.

Read more about coyotes at www.wildohio.com. Click on "Species A-Z Guide."