Charlotte residents share habitat with urban coyotes; the city defers to NC Wildlife Resources Commission rules, encourages hazing of bold coyotes, and prohibits feeding wildlife that attracts predators into neighborhoods.
Coyotes are classified as a nongame species in North Carolina and may be taken year-round on private land with landowner permission, subject to firearm-discharge ordinances. Within Charlotte city limits firearm discharge is restricted, so most homeowners rely on hazing techniques such as yelling, waving arms, and air horns to reinforce wariness of humans. Animal Care and Control responds only to coyotes that are sick, injured, or exhibiting unusually aggressive behavior. Feeding wildlife, including unsecured pet food and compost, can be cited under the county wildlife-feeding ordinance.
Illegal discharge of a firearm in city limits is a misdemeanor; feeding wildlife may bring civil fines, and using poisons or unapproved traps violates state wildlife regulations.
Charlotte, NC
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See how Charlotte's coyote management rules stack up against other locations.
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