``Since the average coyote is about 20 pounds and is a "loner", he presents much less danger to people, pets and livestock that the hysteria would indicate. Domestic dogs are more dangerous than coyotes, and domestic cats kill lots of birds without the ecological importance of the coyote.``

Well said, PDQ. Just a small addition. In Alberta, the time coyotes trouble ranchers is calving season. Basic rule is shoot coyotes on sight.