Humans have been trying to eradicate coyotes for centuries. Expanding the hunting season, which the state Natural Resources Commission has done, isn’t likely to change the outcome.
“They are one of the most successful species in North America,” offered Steve Griffith, MDNR wildlife biologist stationed in Traverse City.”We never use to have many coyotes in Michigan, and now I don’t think anyone has put a dent in them. There is no shortage of them.”
Coyotes in Leelanau County are the reason buttocks are stripped from road-kill deer before sunup, and Yorkie owners in rural areas flip on outside lights when their pets take an evening potty break. Although they are closely related to (and in rare cased can even breed with) dogs, coyotes are more likely to look at family pets like dinner.
