Stateline Woods Preserve Visitor

As you may know, Stateline Woods was recently closed for deer hunting.  During this time, our hunters made an observation that lead them to believe that there were coyotes on the property.   Since that time, we have confirmation through trail cameras that there are indeed coyotes spending some time at Stateline Woods Preserve.  We want to make sure that you are aware but not alarmed by this fact.

Eastern Coyotes are a popular topic of discussion and they typically get a fairly unforgiving light shone upon them.  Eastern coyotes typically weigh 30 to 50 pounds and they are 48 to 60 inches long.  Territories of coyotes range from 5 to 25 square miles and the territories are shared by a mated pair and their offspring.   Coyotes breeding season is January to March and they are quite vocal during this time.

Coyotes are a natural and important part of our ecosystem (the rumors that they were introduced by the game commission or insurance companies are false) and it is worth learning more about them and their habits.  Coyotes have a wide ranging diet and are advantageous eaters.  Open trash containers are easy pickings for food sources, as are small pets.  It is important to lock up your pets in the evening.   Coyotes have been in Chester County for a number of years, and potentially have been in the Stateline Woods area for quite some time.

As a species, coyotes have been very adaptable in increasingly urban settings but with proper precautions, we can coexist with this predator quite nicely.   We want to make sure you are armed with information, but also know that coyotes are not cause for alarm.  Please feel free to contact us with any additional questions regarding coyotes at Stateline Woods Preserve at 610-347-0347 ext. 103 or stewardship@tlcforscc.org

Thank you to Dan Mummert, Wildlife Biologist from the PA State Game Commission for the wonderful information!