Ecology of Coyotes in Urban Forest PreservesStanley D. Gehrt
Recently, coyote-human conflicts have increased in the Chicagoland area, presumably as a result of an increase in coyote numbers.
Recently, coyote-human conflicts have increased in the Chicagoland area, presumably as a result of an increase in coyote numbers.
Cook County, Illinois is interesting because it contains one of the highest human densities in the United States, but is also characterized by an extensive system of county forest preserves. This interspersion of preserved open spaces within an extensive urban landscape presents an opportunity for human-wildlife interactions.
Thus, there is a demonstrated need for information on the numbers, movement patterns, health and related ecological aspects for coyotes in Cook County. Additionally, it is desirable to know the frequency and extent to which coyotes inhabiting forest preserves leave those areas and utilize adjacent properties, such as residential communities.
With funding from Cook County Animal Control and Conservation Medicine Coalition, this 3-year study is investigating various ecological aspects of coyotes using the Chicago landscape. Specifically, the objectives include 1) determine the population dynamics and movement patterns of resident coyotes on forest preserves, 2) ascertain the prevalence of various pathogens within the coyote population in Cook County, 3) determine the prevalence and distribution of zoonotic diseases in the coyote population and 4) identify large-scale landscape use by coyotes.
With funding from Cook County Animal Control and Conservation Medicine Coalition, this 3-year study is investigating various ecological aspects of coyotes using the Chicago landscape. Specifically, the objectives include 1) determine the population dynamics and movement patterns of resident coyotes on forest preserves, 2) ascertain the prevalence of various pathogens within the coyote population in Cook County, 3) determine the prevalence and distribution of zoonotic diseases in the coyote population and 4) identify large-scale landscape use by coyotes.
To date, we have captured and radiocollared 34 coyotes from three primary study areas in the Chicago region. We are currently radiotracking to determine movement patterns and survival. Results from this project will include basic ecological information that also can be used for public education, such as the current status of coyote populations, mortality factors for urban coyotes and whether they are expanding in number. These results also are important for educated management programs.
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