Things to remember:
Do not leave food outside overnight and to never feed these animals.
Small pets should be watched while out of doors.
Small children should, of course, be watched and never left alone outside for more reasons than wild animals.
Bird feeders will attract mice, voles, chipmunk and squirrels as well as others. These are prey animals for foxes and coyotes so having bird feeders out will attract predators to houses.
If you see a fox/coyote do not approach it, instead yell loudly and throw sticks and rocks at it. The animal will probably avoid your yard if they run into this type of treatment.
Trapping, relocating, or killing these animals does little to deter them as their place will be taken by another.
Do not leave trash at the curb overnight.
Be sure that trash is placed in containers with lids.
If you have a deck or shed be sure to either open up the underneath area so it is visible (unprotected) or completely seal it off as these animals like to hide in such areas.
Fox/Coyote Urine, usually bought to deter other animals, can be used to mark your yard. The fox/coyote will think the territory belongs to another fox/coyote and may avoid it.
Other foul smelling odors may serve the same purpose.
A device called a Water Scarecrow has been found to be effective. It is a motion-activated sprinkler. Again, the animal will avoid an area in which it is constantly sprayed with water.
Keep your yard toys/tools in outdoor boxes or bring them inside each night or they may disappear!
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Nuisance & Invasive Species
Preventing & Controlling Wildlife Damage
Fox Profile / Coyote Profile
New York Suburban Coyote Study
Westchester County
Species Recovery Project
Dept. of Health: Rabies Control
Dept. of Health: Press Releases
Out of State Links
Massachusettes Fox Brochure
United Kingdom Fox Web Site