Coyote Season in Texas: Mating, Pups and Pet Safety

Coyotes in Texas mate from January to March. TPWD puts it this way: “Coyotes are considered monogamous, with pairs remaining together for several years, although not necessarily for life. They breed from mid-January to early March.” It is the loudest stretch of the coyote year: pairs court and mark their ground, and coyotes travel farther and show up more often by day.

Yes. Coyote hunting is open all year in Texas with no bag limit, under the 2026 to 2027 rules from TPWD. You need a Texas hunting license; none to hunt depredating coyotes on private property with the landowner's authorization (hunter education rules still apply). On hunting at night: “In addition, be aware that public hunting lands may also have additional restrictions. If hunting at night, as a courtesy please contact your local game warden.”

Do not run. Wild Aware Utah puts it this way: “Do not run or turn your back on a coyote that has approached you. Face the coyote, shout at it, be as big and loud as possible, wave your arms and back away slowly.”

Texas Wildlife Services, main office in San Antonio (refers callers to the nearest local office): (210) 472-5451.

Coyote trapping is open all year in Texas under the 2026 to 2027 rules from TPWD. “A hunting license is required for the take of nongame species. There are no closed seasons, bag limits or possession limits; and, they may be hunted at any time by any lawful means or methods on private property.”

Coyotes can take cats and small dogs, and can treat a larger dog as a threat while mating and raising pups. TPWD advises: “Keep pets inside, confined securely in a kennel or covered exercise yard, or within the close presence of an adult.” It also says: “Walk pets on a leash and accompany them outside, especially at night.”