“Digging under is likely going to happen, but we can use those crawl-under spots to apprehend them before they cause damage,” he said. “So, don't plug those holes, call me or your local extension office, and I'll come out and show you how to target and trap those coyotes causing problems.”
Beyond carcass disposal and fencing, producers may choose to practice night penning or securing their livestock in a barn or other structure during night hours.
“Coyotes usually hunt right around sunrise, sunset and through the nighttime,” Ricketts said. “Accordingly, this is one of the most effective ways to exclude predation – especially for small ruminant producers.”
Guardian animals can also keep livestock out of harm’s way. Ricketts said the kind of guardian “depends on the best fit for your operation.” Species often used as guardians include:
• Llamas.
• Donkeys.
• Dogs.
Due to their status as a migratory bird, non-lethal control strategies remain the most common option for black vultures, which can be seen in the far southeast corner of the state.
“You’re going to have to haze them,” Ricketts said. “Deterring them includes a combination of using pyrotechnics, noise-making devices and hanging fake, dead vultures – called effigies – near roosting sites to exclude those birds.”