RALEIGH, N.C. — State wildlife officials are offering tips to deter coyotes because the spring typically brings a rise in sightings across North Carolina.

Coyotes usually avoid humans, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission says in a news release, but because they are raising pups in spring, there is more pressure for them to find food. Their prey usually includes rodents and rabbits, but they may scrounge for food scraps or pet food left outdoors.

The wildlife agency recommends feeding pets indoors or removing dishes immediately if feeding pets outdoors. In addition, keep birdseed and fruit off the ground, to avoid attracting rodents that are prey for coyotes.

Small pets should be kept on a leash and monitored while outside, so they are not seen as prey.

Coyotes can be scared away from homes by shouting and waving your arms or spraying them with a hose, the wildlife agency says, adding that discouraging the animals is the best way to coexist with them.

“Coyotes will move on once their pups are old enough to survive outside of the den,” said Falyn Owens, extension biologist for the wildlife agency.