Category: Coyote Hunting

What’s the Best Coyote Bait for Property Hunting? (6 Coyote Baits)

When a coyote is becoming a nuisance on your property, the time comes when the only sensible option is to shoot it. But how to lure the poor bastard in to range, and keep him there long enough to get the shot off?

The preferred way to do this is with bait.

There are a number of options available that will suit the cause just fine, but a few stand out from the rest.

DO NOT buy bait from a store, as coyotes have become smart enough to recognize unnatural items. It’s important to be conniving to be effective.

Here are the best coyote bait for on property hunting.

Best coyote bait

The ideal coyote bait is the remains of a live animal.

The bigger and meatier, the better.

This can be tough, but keep an eye out for squirrels and other scurry animals that may be on the property.

It is encouraged to keep small animals and smaller bait options around for spells when there are many coyotes or little large bait.

They make decent bait in a pinch.

There are, however, a handful of better options. Let’s take a look at them.

Here is a video of baiting coyotes. But first, you need to know how to find coyote 

1. Pigs or hogs

Hogs make a good coyote bait because of the smell and the fact that they act as a meat source.

The problem with dead hogs is that they can be difficult to come by. Your best bet is probably to ask a hog farmer if he has any meat available for you. Perhaps he will have a rotten hog carcass that he is willing to part with, or at least part of one. It isn’t necessary to have an entire hog, especially if you are only hunting one or two coyotes. They will be lured by the sheer fact that there is meat available that they didn’t have to work for.

2. Deer carcass

The best coyote bait is a deer carcass.
Coyotes are naturally attracted to everything about it, and will be lured in by the smell of a dead animal.

Deer carcasses have the benefit of being generally larger than most other live animal coyote baits available. This can confuse the coyotes, which is a good thing because they won’t suspect that it is a trap.

If there is frequent roadkill in the area, that can be a great source of deer carcasses.

Note: It is important to check local law to make sure that this practice is legal in the region.

It would be terrible to receive a citation for hauling a deer carcass when all you’re trying to do is hunt coyotes.

Another downside of deer carcasses, because of their size, is that it often takes more than one person to haul, relocate, and stage the dead deer. Other than that, deer are the best coyote bait for most situations. 

You can also use meat or parts of an animal that you hunted yourself that aren’t being used. Any responsible sportsman is all about using every part of an animal they kill, and this offers an opportunity to do just that. Granted, another animal is going to be killed, but you can use that one as well or have it be feed for vultures or other wildlife.

3. Afterbirth

If you’ve got access to a farm or are a farmer yourself, horde the afterbirth from baby calves.

There is nothing that attracts coyotes by smell better than afterbirth. It is completely disgusting, but don’t actually touch it. Store in secure container and leave out at night.

When the hunt is ready, the stench will have already filled the air and attracted any coyotes in the nearby area. The downside here is that you have to use it right away, because who the hell wants to store afterbirth on their property? The timing is the issue that prevents this from being the best coyote bait. This scenario only works if your calves are born at the same time as you are needing to hunt coyotes on the property.

5. Beavers

We can’t condone illegal use of beaver for bait. But if access to a beaver corpse is doable, beaver can make a great option. Coyotes view beaver as a treat, something they don’t dine on every day, and will be willing to take more risks for the satisfaction than they would for other, smaller prey like rabbits.

This gives the opportunity to place the bait in a more ideal location for the hunter. Bring them in a little closer, and take the shot before the coyote is able to haul off the bait.

6. Where to place the bait

This is one of the most important factors in coyote hunting.

The bait must be placed in a location that:

  • a) attracts the coyotes without tipping them off that it’s a trap, and
  • b) is convenient for the hunter to target and shoot them while they’re there

In order to find the perfect location for coyote bait, first analyze your shooting location.

Is it well hidden? In a trench, or elevated? What kind of angles are you dealing with, and what are the weather factors? Make note of these, and then walk the perimeter of the area.

The goal is to find a spot that doesn’t require any movement on your part to get the shot off. If the coyote bait can be staged in an open area, or at the crest of a berm, the shot will be easier.

If the problem is that there are no open areas, consider cleaning out a spot or shifting the hunting field altogether (if possible).

I recommend you should bring the best ar bipod in coyote hunting. It will help you. 

Conclusion

There are many other options when it comes to coyote bait.

But these four are the best options.

They aren’t always going to be available, so it’s best to be able to find bunnies, squirrels, geese, etc. to use in situations where larger bait is absent. As always, be sure to follow any local laws and practices for coyote hunting.

They may be a nuisance, but so is a hefty fine or punishment.

If you’ve enjoyed this article, please blast it out on your social channels. Have any tips on best coyote bait? Leave them in the comments below!

5 Frequently Question You Need To Know About Coyote Howls?

Coyotes are among the most common animals hunters run into both at home and in the wild.

They are spread across the US, with the eastern coyotes being larger than those seen out west.

Coyotes are interesting animals, and very vocal to boot. They are one of the few animals not easily displaced by expanding cities. Coyotes are often seen sprinting across roads, railroad tracks, even parking lots of shopping centers.

Perhaps their most notable trait is the coyote’s howl. Let’s take a look at some basics of coyote howls, and everything you need to know about them.

Everything you need to know about coyote howls
Do coyotes howl?
Why do coyotes howl?
When do coyotes howl?
What do coyote sounds mean?
What should I do when I hear a coyote howl?
Conclusion

1. Do coyotes howl?

The short answer is YES!

Coyotes do howl, and because they travel in packs, they often howl all at once.

A coyote howl is kind of like a high-pitched squeal. In some ways it is similar to a dog bark and in other ways it is very different.

The howl starts relatively calm, with some yipping and squealing. As more and more coyotes join in, it starts to sound like a group of old people laughing hysterically all at the same time. In the most annoying, high-pitched laugh possible.

Many who live in Western areas like Colorado, Utah, and other states encounter coyote howls regularly.

Those that live on the fringe of big cities or in rural areas often here the howls at night, after dusk, as the pack moves towards their location for the evening.

Here is a great video of coyotes howling:

2. Why do coyotes howl?

The coyote howl is the main form of audible communication between coyotes.

Coyote packs, typically families, may spread out to hunt on their own.

The howl, in this case, would be started by a pack leader with the intention of bringing the pack back together again.

A prolonged session of howling may indicate that the pack is spread out. As more and more coyotes join in, the collective howl continues to get louder and more prolonged.

Embracing the true pack mentality, coyotes are territorial creatures. One pack crossing onto the territory of another pack (often a larger or more settled one) is severely frowned upon. This is a frequent source of why coyotes howl. The howl is basically a warning, as if to say “Stay off my lawn.”

3. When do coyotes howl?

The main coyotes doing the howling are the small group (often 2) of lead coyotes who are mated and head the pack.

Because of the way that their howls change pitch as they are emitted and pass through the surrounding environment, it often sounds as though there are as many as a dozen coyotes howling at once.

This is usually not the case when orders are being barked.

However, other coyotes will howl when they need to respond. If other pack leaders are in the area, they may decide to start howling as well, and this is when coyote howls really get going.

They can stretch across acres of terrain. In suburban areas, because coyotes aren’t turned off by the houses and development, this often causes quite a noise disturbance.

The lead coyotes howl when they need to alert the group to come back together. They also howl when they are disturbed or upset.

This type of howl will be done usually by only one coyote at a time, and isn’t meant to cause a whole chorus of replies.

If you are walking your dog and the coyote catches wind of it, he may emit a howl at the perceived threat. This can also happen when no dog is present.

4. What do coyote sounds mean?

Typically, coyote sounds reflect the current communication needs of the coyote.

Whether that be a warning from the alpha coyote to the rest of the group, or one coyote noting a threat.

It can also mean that there is a disturbance or annoyance to that particular animal.

Often, coyotes will howl to alert the group of a threat real or imagined.

Maybe a coyote is wandering around the edge of a territory and comes across something of note. A howl may then be used as a signifier.

Coyotes have great hearing, and can often comprehend a howl and its purpose from over a mile away. This is especially true during group howls, as the sound carries across the landscape. A coyote may emit a howl so that others in the pack know where he or she is and can find their way to their family member.

Here is a video of different coyote howls and noises.

5. What should I do when I hear a coyote howl?

If you hear a coyote howl, but can’t see the coyote, the first thing to do is keep an eye out. They are nearby, and are likely aware of your presence. They aren’t prone to attack humans straight away. They also spook easy and will retreat if they feel threatened.

In most cases, the coyote howl is internal communication between the pack and not intended for you at all. When more than one coyote is howling at a time near you, they are using normal communication to call the group back together or perform other routine tasks. It can sound intimidating, but shouldn’t necessarily be perceived that way. Coyotes aren’t usually on the prowl for humans in highly populated areas.

Still, it is advised to move away with caution. Absolutely do not run at the coyote or throw sticks or rocks at it.

Conclusion

This should give you a basic understanding of coyote howls and what their intended purpose is. If you are using ar10 rifle, i have the post about the best ar10 scope for hunting, you will find the good scope for your ar. 

As you can see, these howls are not usually meant to be threatening to humans in any way.
The coyote communicates with those in his pack regularly, and the howl is their standard verbal diction.

There is no need to fret when you hear a coyote howl. Instead, stop and listen and try to figure out what you think the coyote is trying to say.

Share your thoughts on coyote howls down below in the comments.

Also, please share this article on social media so that we can spread awareness of what coyote howls mean and break any preconceived notions that are just plain false.

Coyotes are lovely creatures.

Hunting a Coyote? Let’s Find How to Trap a Coyote

Is a coyote being a constant nuisance to you, your property, or your animals? The best option for you may be to learn how to trap a coyote. This is a tricky task, but it can be done.

how to trap a coyote

GrowingDeer

I trapped my first coyote at the age of 22 after several failed attempts over the years. My grandpa had the method down to a science, but it took me many tries to finally get it right.

Here in this article I’m going to fill you in on how to trap a coyote, and mistakes to avoid during the process.

Identify the correct coyote.

Coyotes travel in packs, but are very individually motivated when certain instincts chime in.

This is important when it comes to how to trap a coyote because if you catch the wrong one, your damage problems are going to continue.

Before ever setting the trap, do some studying and observing of the coyotes in your area.

National Park Service

Most problem-causing coyotes are youthful males at the peak of their strength and ability. Because of their highly agile demeanor, these coyotes have enough confidence in their skill at getting away (mixed with a lack of control over their instincts) that they are more willing to take risks.

Once you’ve caught a coyote, look for tell-tale signs of livestock damage.

Check their teeth and paws for evidence of a killing. Check their fur for any signs of your property and your livestock.

Use a large quick-response trap

Some characteristics of the trap I always use, that I got from my grandpa:

  • 6-inch jaw spread. This is a minimum. Due to their speed and high level of awareness that coyotes maintain, you’re not going to fool them into stepping in anything smaller than that
  • Number 3 coil. This one is the right size and speed to trap the coyote before they have a chance to get their paw or body part out of the way
  • Any part of the trap must act as one unit. If you have problems clamping onto the coyote, the answer is to increase the velocity of the closing mechanism. I highly encourage you to buy a new trap from a reputable dealer instead of modifying one that you already have

Set the trap where there is evidence of disruption

Coyotes are prone to return to areas that have been fruitful for them in the past. Set your trap near the area where an incident has occurred. If you have any type of a livestock decoy that can assist the situation, set it up there.

Here is a video on trapping coyotes.

One place I really have found great is elevated areas. I like to place the trip off to the side of a ridge peak. Always in the direction I suspect they are moving in as it relates to where the incidents are occurring.

Here are the most frequent areas I’ve had success when working on how to trap a coyote:

  • Feeding areas. Coyotes smell not just your livestock, but their food. This draws them in because they sense the double whammy. When setting a trap here, be sure it is somewhere that your animals are not going to step in
  • Small openings. Coyotes work their way into holes in fences, yards, and other areas that provide a sort of secretive entrance and exit. This makes the perfect place for you to set a trap, because the only animal that is covering that ground is going to be the coyote
  • Trails and paths. Coyotes appear at night along trail ways and other more clearly marked areas that they tend to move away from during daylight hours. I always catch my coyotes at night when visibility is down and they are more likely to make a mistake. Paths make for an easier way for the coyote to get towards their preferred destination, and thus their guard may be lowered as they move along them

Confuse the coyote and lure him in

Try to catch the coyote when he least expects it. I’ve found digging a hole and basing my trap setup around that is a great way to get them caught when they can’t wiggle their way out.

Decreased mobility is going to work in your favor. By trapping them partially in a hole or by placing some feed in a hole just beyond the trap, your odds of success will increase.

Here is a video on how to make a dirt hole set.

Also, note the decoy strategy here. The more factors you have working in your favor, the better. How to track a coyote boils down to outthinking him, and taking advantage of him where he is weak. Hills, food, and animals are three of those areas.

How to trap a coyote: What to avoid

Coyotes are smart animals, in addition to being incredibly fast and agile. As such, any type of cage trap isn’t likely to work. The animal will detect it from afar and steer clear of it entirely.

How to trap a coyote What to avoid

Wisconsin

Another thing to avoid is breaking the law. Depending on where you are located, there may be differing regulations and advisable procedures for setting, trapping, and handling a coyote.

Always check with your local wildlife department or animal control sector to find the best way to solve your problem.

Additionally, don’t set up your traps near dry brush.

Coyotes tend to stick away from these kind of areas as them make noise, startle them, and generally aren’t productive for them. The same goes for hay and other animal edibles that coyotes don’t like.

Do some research on what attracts coyotes in your area and incorporate those things into your strategy.

Conclusion

Trapping coyotes is tough, but by following these best practice your odds of getting rid of the nuisance will increase.

If you have to trap a few before getting the right one, so be it. After all, your livestock and income are at stake here.

If you have enjoyed this article, please give it a share on your social channels and do your part to increase awareness. Have a strategy that works in your specific neck of the woods? Check my recent post about the best gun safe for the money to storage your weapon of coyote hunting. 

Leave a comment below so that any in the region can adopt the same policy.

How to Find a Coyote Den?

Do you know how to find a coyote den? The toughest thing about finding a coyote den is the pure intelligence of the animal.

Coyotes have great instincts and are quick to adapt to different situations – natural and predatory. Coyotes should be monitored if you have livestock or significant agriculture, and there are multiple steps on how to find a coyote den that we will discuss here.

Research a coyote den’s characteristics.

First and foremost, note that coyotes do not use dens year round. They primarily use them for pupping, or when elements drive them inside. Typically, coyote dens are located on hillisides and deep creek beds that allow for easy digging and earthmoving. Loose shrubbery and branches also come in handy, giving the coyotes a bit of extra security. Here is a great video about coyote dens:

  • Pups move out at a young age, but remain active in any hiding spots around the den. Coyotes frequently sleep outside, and despite being near den, aren’t necessarily going to be in it. Keep this in mind when approaching.
  • Dens are typically located below ground level, sometimes up to five or six feet down. There will be a dug-out tunnel that leads to a main living area that is expanded and can fit multiple coyotes.
  • Coyotes typically rotate between multiple dens. They will be spread out around an area, and the animals are very careful not to lead others back to their den. This is what makes it so challenging when learning how to find a coyote den. Here is a great article explaining the basics behind coyote denning.
  • Identify water sources nearby where you suspect a den may be. The coyotes need to drink water, so if you can confirm they are drinking from a certain source than you are on the right track.

Identify where you’ve seen or heard the coyotes.

Likely, you’ll hear them howling at night, or in the early evening. On the edges of nature preserves, parks, green spaces, and hillsides, coyotes actually tend to make their presence quite known- it’s the exact location that is much harder to pinpoint. Then comes the process of finding a coyote den. Plan to devote several days to the process, if you’re really serious about finding it.

You may find scat or other remnants of their presence in areas near your home. Try walking about fifty feet further out and seeing if you find more, if so, you have identified which direction they are coming from. Here are some tips to help everything go smoothly:

  • Coyotes typically prowl about five or six square miles from their den, in any given direction. The further they roam from the den, the more on edge they will be. This means they will be more easily startled and quicker to retreat.
  • They are quick and often deceiving because you’ll hear them in one place one moment, and in another the next. Try to track where you most frequently see or hear the coyotes. Even if that’s not their den, you’ll have a general idea of their path and where they spend the most time.
  • If you aren’t having any luck, try howling and seeing if you can generate a response from the coyotes. Try different pitches, tones, and cackles that resemble those made by the animal

Where could other prey be located near your property? Maybe their coming around has nothing to do with you or your property. If there are collections of prey, bodies of water, or other attractive elements nearby, try tracking them from that spot back to the den. For basic tracking techniques, check out this video.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZpWmfw3lmS0

Track the coyote back to its den.

If the coyote has attacked any of your livestock, you’re likely very upset and wanting to get the pesky coyotes as far away from your animals as possible (if not take it a step further!). Be careful when searching around at night, and definitely DO NOT BRING YOUR DOG WITH YOU. Coyote hunting is an exciting activity, but one best done alone.

The animals spook easy and even if you do locate a den, the odds that they will return there are very minimal if they know that you have found it. All things considered, you shouldn’t have too much of a problem tracing the suspect back to its den from the site of the kill. Here’s what to do:

  • Look for blood stains, trampled shrubbery or plants nearby the kill site. Figure out the most likely direction of escape and trace the potential route with your eyes back to a nearby hillside or embankment.
  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=04cmkr6da6c
  • Identify a game trail or other foot markings left by the coyote leading up to the hillside or embankment. If you can’t find any obvious trails, look for markings left on nearby trees or other larger vegetation.
  • Follow that path as closely as you can. Remember, it may be up to six miles, so having a four-wheeler or motorbike may come in handy. Although you’ll want to be as quiet as possible during the final or actual approach.
  • When close, let out a coyote howl and see if a response happens. If you get one, don’t be surprised if you do not receive another for quite some time. Be ready to track based on the one howl that you got from the coyote.
  • Always be careful! Shoo them away but don’t put yourself in danger.

Conclusion

Locating a coyote den is often a lengthy process. Personally, I enjoy it because it’s a good excuse to get out into nature and focus on something direct and real.

Remember to track the coyotes via sounds, tracks, and any sightings you encounter, for several days before attempting to locate their den.

I always suggest perusing around your property regularly just to keep aware of any new ‘neighbors’ and to establish a firm presence and authority.

If you found this article helpful, please share on social media, and don’t forget to leave any comments here. Let;’s get a discussion going!

Featured Image by wplynn

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