Coyote Breeding Season Kicks Off in Colorado

Residents warned to watch pets as coyote attacks on small dogs reported

Jan. 27, 2026 at 6:15pm

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Coyote mating season has officially begun in Colorado, running from now through March with a peak around mid-to-late February. Local officials are warning residents, especially in areas near open spaces, to be vigilant about supervising their pets, especially smaller dogs and cats, as coyotes may view them as prey during this active breeding period.

Why it matters

Coyote attacks on pets, particularly in suburban and urban areas bordering open spaces, tend to increase during breeding season as the animals become more aggressive and territorial. This poses a risk to residents' furry family members and highlights the need for education and precautions to coexist safely with local wildlife.

The details

In recent incidents, two small dogs were attacked in separate yards in Lafayette, Colorado, prompting local officials to issue warnings. Colorado Parks and Wildlife advises never leaving pets unattended, even in fenced yards, and avoiding leaving pet food outside, as it can draw coyotes closer to homes. While coyotes typically view smaller pets as prey, they may also see larger dogs as a threat, leading to confrontations.

  • Coyote mating season officially kicked off in January 2026 and runs through March.
  • The peak of coyote breeding season happens around mid-to-late February.

The players

Colorado Parks and Wildlife

The state agency responsible for managing and protecting Colorado's wildlife, including providing guidance to residents on coexisting safely with coyotes.

Lafayette, Colorado

A city in Colorado where two small dog attacks by coyotes have been reported, prompting local officials to issue warnings to residents.

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What’s next

Colorado Parks and Wildlife continues to monitor the situation and provide guidance to residents on protecting their pets during coyote breeding season.

The takeaway

As coyote breeding season ramps up in Colorado, pet owners must be extra vigilant about supervising their animals, especially smaller dogs and cats, to avoid potential attacks. Heeding wildlife agency advice and taking precautions can help residents and their furry friends coexist safely with local coyote populations.