Why Coyotes Are So Loud Right Now Across Connecticut

Anyone who knows me knows I’m a romantic, so I’m always excited to learn about other like-minded souls — and even other romantic species — here on planet Earth. That’s exactly what happened when I talked to our wildlife correspondent, Jen the Zookeeper, about the periodic howling I’ve been hearing outside lately.

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As it turns out, romance is the reason for all the noise. Jen breaks it all down below — here’s what she had to say.

Hearing extra howling lately? That’s not spooky… it’s romantic.

Coyote mating season in Connecticut runs from January through March, with peak canine chaos in late January and February. During this time, coyotes are feeling bold, territorial, and very vocal as they defend turf and try to impress potential mates. Translation: more noise, more sightings, more attitude.

What to watch for:

• Pets are the biggest concern, especially small dogs and cats. Keep dogs leashed and don’t let pet's roam. Coyotes consider dawn and dusk prime date-night hours.
• Coyotes may seem unusually confident around neighborhoods and yards. Personal boundaries are not their strong suit right now.
• Encounters with people are still rare, but situational awareness is smart. They’re focused on each other, not you.

Read More: Connecticut Great Dane Named Tallest Female Dog 

Safety tips (please don’t help them out):

• Do not feed coyotes or leave pet food outside.
• Secure trash and remove anything that might look like a free dinner.
• If you see a coyote, stand your ground, make noise, and slowly back away. Be loud, awkward, and uninteresting.

Love is in the air. Keep pets close and trash cans locked.

More on Jen the Zookeeper 

Jen has spent more than 30 years immersed in the fields of animal care, conservation, and science education. As the former Director of Animal Care for the New Canaan Nature Center in Connecticut, she oversaw the care of native mammals, reptiles, and birds of prey while educating the public about the important roles these wild neighbors play in our ecosystem. Her experience also includes time with both the Bronx Zoo and the Los Angeles Zoo, where she focused on the care of African and Asian wildlife and helped teach visitors about the delicate balance between humans and natural habitats.

Later, while working at a wildlife sanctuary in Half Moon Bay, California, Jen played a key role in training and handling nearly 50 exotic species. She also developed educational programs for at-risk and foster youth, helping historically underserved kids build trust, confidence, and healing connections with the non-releasable animals at the sanctuary.

In addition to her extensive wildlife work, Jen has experience in horse and dog training, animal control, veterinary care, and all things conservation education. Today, she owns and operates Jen Kotkin Pet Care, where she provides personalized care, exercise, and enrichment for dogs, cats, horses, birds, and more.