A coyote is spotted in your neighborhood.

It’s a scenario more and more common in suburban communities across North America.

That’s because coyotes,Canas latrans,adapt easily to living in proximity to humans.

Coyote Totem

Don Johnston / Getty Images

Plenty of studies have been done to discover and interpret the meanings of the different vocalizations.

The latin name for coyote,Canas latrans,translates to ‘barking dog.’

It’s most likely to launch the other way or attempt to hide.

Closeup of bird caught on smart bird feeder camera

The Spruce / Adrienne Legault

Want more gardening tips?

Take downbird feedersand keep small pets indoors, especially at night.

You may need to temporarily cover or create barriers to fish ponds or other water features that attract wildlife.

Image of bottle of lemon ammonia, used as a dog repellent (also deters cats and mosquitoes).

The Spruce / David Beaulieu

Keepgarbage cans inaccessibleuntil garbage day or use a bungee cord to secure lids.

Pick up and dispose food or scraps left after outdoor entertaining or activity.

Fence or cover your compost pile.

Motion Detector Light

CASEZY / Getty Images

Mothballs, vinegar, and ammonia turn them away as well as human scents like soaps and perfumes.

Predator scents like wolf urine are also effective and can be purchased at hunting outlets and some retail stores.

Walk pets on a leash, especially in parks and woodland areas where coyotes have been spotted.

Green steel security fence.

Oleksii Halutva / Getty Images

Carry pepper spray or a hefty walking stick.

Low-impact hazing does not harm the animal.

The goal is to fortify the coyotes' natural fear of humans.

Banging Pots

GEOFFROY VAN DER HASSELT / Getty Images

Call your state department of fish and wildlife or contact your local animal control agency.

These agencies can put you in touch with a professional who can rid you of the problem.

North American Distribution.Urban Coyote Research Project