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Wildlife Information on Coyotes
OC Animal Care
Many residents of Orange County are expressing
concern about coyote sightings and the consequences of
predator animals within the urban environment. Several
residents have lost their pets to these skilled
hunters because many are not aware of recent coyote
activity in the area.
Coyotes are found in ALL areas of Orange County.
Contrary to popular belief, these animals do not
require open space or "wild areas" to
survive. In fact, most coyotes within the urban
setting are the offspring of generations of coyotes
who lived and flourished in the urban areas of Orange
County.
Though these animals are far from domesticated,
they are very comfortable living in close proximity to
human beings. They have little fear of man and are
frequently seen trotting along within a few feet of
joggers, bikers and horseback riders. While not
normally a danger to human beings, coyotes will
display defensive behaviors if threatened or cornered,
therefore, it is important to leave a comfortable
distance between you and a coyote.
Small pets can easily become coyote prey. Cats and
small dogs should not be allowed outside alone, even
in a fenced yard. It is highly recommended that small
pets always be accompanied by their owner. Though
coyotes generally hunt between sunset and sunrise,
they can be observed at all hours of the day and will
not pass up the opportunity for an easy meal. A dog or
cat left in a backyard can be taken in a matter of
moments.
Many steps can be taken to protect you and your
property from nuisance animals like coyotes and other
wildlife.
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Fence
off animal enclosures (fully enclose if
possible). |
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Keep
cats and small dogs indoors or in the close
presence of an adult. |
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Feed
pets indoors. |
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Store
trash in covered heavy-duty containers. |
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Keep
yards free from potential shelter such as thick
brush and weeds. |
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Enclose
the bottoms of porches and decks. |
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Eliminate
potential food and water sources, such as fallen
fruit and standing water. |
If you do encounter a coyote that behaves aggressively, you have probably gotten too close to its prey or its family. Increase the "comfort zone" between you and the coyote. A coyote behaves in a similar way as domestic dogs that are defending their territory and family. Even a fully fenced yard will not keep out a hungry, athletic coyote. These animals are extremely agile and can easily scale any residential fence. All children should be taught from a very early age that they should avoid strange animals, whether domestic or non-domestic. They should never attempt to feed a wild animal. When older children are hiking or are in parks, they should be instructed on coyote safety.
Eradication and/or relocation of the urban coyote is not effective. These programs actually provide a vacuum in nature causing these animals to have even larger litters, ultimately increasing the coyote population.
Practicing these defensive measures will minimize
the nuisances and losses caused by urban coyotes. |
