What is an effective cultural practice to reduce coyote predation?

Choosing pastures wisely is an effective cultural practice to reduce coyote predation because the selection of pasture areas can significantly impact the risk of encounters between coyotes and livestock. By carefully evaluating and selecting grazing areas, livestock owners can opt for locations that are less conducive to coyote activity. This may involve considering aspects such as proximity to natural cover that can harbor coyotes, the availability of food sources nearby, and the layout of the land.

For instance, utilizing pastures that are distant from wooded areas or heavy brush can reduce the likelihood of coyotes approaching livestock. Additionally, pastures with adequate visibility allow for better monitoring of livestock and early detection of potential threats. Thoughtful pasture management also includes rotating grazing areas to reduce the pressure in any one locale, which can help disrupt coyote behavior patterns.

Other options may not be as effective for reducing predation. Feeding livestock during the night could inadvertently attract coyotes to the areas where livestock are present, increasing the risk of predation. Allowing free grazing may expose livestock to greater risk, as they could wander into territories favored by coyotes. Building tall fences could provide some physical barrier, but it may not be a complete solution on its own, especially if coyotes can dig under or climb over