Using community science data to investigate urban Coyotes (Canis latrans) in Atlanta, Georgia, USA

Abstract

Coyote activity was investigated in Atlanta, Georgia from 2015 to 2018 using publicly collected data. More than 500 reports were received annually (1,672 total) and analysis revealed bias toward areas of higher income and education. Human-coyote encounters, defined as an interaction at close range, were rare (196; 12% of observations), but 124 of those reports (63%) indicated the presence of pets nearby. Coyotes were less likely to be observed in areas of high human population density, farmland, and managed clearing, and more likely to be seen in riparian wetlands and areas of low-density development (e.g., parks, golf courses, large-lot homes). Coyote sightings are now relatively common in Atlanta and their presence is generally benign. However, negative coyote interactions do occur and pets should be kept under close supervision and coyote access to anthropogenic food resources prevented. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of using community science to understand urban coyotes.