It’s that time of year again when coyote sightings increase and officials offer advice on how to keep them away from homes.
The reason you’re more likely to see coyotes in many parts of Southern California later this month isn’t surprising: coyote breeding season typically runs from late January through March. Knowing this can help residents and pet owners prepare in advance.
“During this time, adult coyotes travel long distances in search of mates and food sources, resulting in more sightings,” the Huntington Beach Police Department posted Tuesday.
A coyote attack on a toddler near Huntington Beach Pier made headlines in April 2022, not long after the typical breeding season. A family was out by the pier around 9:45 pm when the two-year-old girl was attacked.
The coyote bit the girl and knocked her down, leaving her with injuries described as non-life threatening. Huntington Beach police officers were called to the scene, where they found two coyotes nearby and shot them both.
That same year, the city released its Coyote Management Plan to help the community coexist safely with urban coyotes.
Coyotes, which are native to California, eat a wide range of small animals, including mice, rats and gophers. “Rodents make up the majority of their diet. In the process, they control the population sizes of these animals, many of which are considered pests for humans,” says the city plan.
Unfortunately, urban coyotes are also known to go after small pets or even children and can be attracted to the neighborhood by pet food, unsecured compost or trash, and fallen fruit.
What you can do to prepare:
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Cut down vegetation that can create hiding places and shelters.
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Quickly harvest ripe or fallen fruits and vegetables.
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Pick up trash and keep lids closed.
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Keep rubbish inside a secure garage or building until collection day.
Pet owners are encouraged not to leave small dogs outside unattended, as they may be seen as potential prey.
“It is important to either keep dogs on a six-foot leash or shorter when outside or to stay within six feet of them when on your property. Coyotes may see a dog on a leash longer than six feet as a lone pet,” officials said.
Protect cats and small dogs from coyotes:
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Keep them primarily indoors.
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When you are out, accompany them or keep them on a leash or harness.
“People who feed feral cats are often concerned that coyotes may prey on the cats,” officials said. “This concern is well founded, as coyotes can be attracted to outdoor pet food.”
More information, including a checklist to make your home coyote-proof, is available on the Coyote Management Plan.
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