Second annual ‘Coyote Challenge’ in Rabun County

CLAYTON — Coyote overpopulation is at an all-time high in Rabun County since no immediate predators are local to the county. However, a familiar contest is welcomed back and asks that you grab your hunting gear for a chance to win a lifetime license.

Coming back for the second year, the Georgia Coyote Challenge highlights how citizens can effectively handle nuisance coyote issues.

This year, entering will be even easier, and participants can earn up to 10 entries in three separate drawings (between March and August), according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division.

According to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the best available science shows that lethal removal of coyotes during spring-summer is most effective for reducing negative impacts from coyote predation on native wildlife, which is why this program is focused on March-August.

As a means to address concerns about coyotes, the DNR agency is raising awareness that coyotes can be hunted and trapped year-round. The Coyote Challenge is part of this educational effort.

“Negative interactions with coyotes are an ongoing issue for many citizens, from rural land managers to suburban homeowners,” says John Bowers, Chief of Game Management for WRD. “While many hunters, trappers, and landowners already make use of the fact that coyotes can be taken year round, the Coyote Challenge emphasizes the utility of removing these non-native predators during the critical spring-summer period for landowners concerned about native wildlife.”

The program will run from Mar. 1 – Aug. 31, 2018. There will be three drawings for a lifetime license (or the equivalent of $750 of credit for hunting and fishing licenses or a prize of similar value). Participants may submit up to 10 coyotes (creating 10 contest entries) during each drawing period. Coyotes must be taken in Georgia to be eligible.

How do you enter? Take a photo of the coyote with your phone. Email that photo to [email protected]. Photos should include the entire, intact carcass.

What is not accepted? Road-kills, spoiled carcasses, coyotes that have been ear-notched, and live coyotes are not eligible. Metadata on all submissions will be analyzed to determine the date and location of the provided image(s).