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Coyotes
are found in all areas of Orange County. They are a native species
and a critical component of the ecosystem. While far from
domesticated, coyotes show little fear of humans and have become
comfortable living in close proximity to our communities. Although
they tend to do most of their hunting after dusk, the so-called
‘prairie wolf” can be active at any time. Under normal
circumstance, a coyote is not a danger to humans. They are, however,
territorial and will respond aggressively if they or their family
are threatened. It is also worth noting that it is hard for a coyote
to pass up a free meal or, as the case may be, a defenseless pet.
This applies even if it requires leaping fences (as high as 6 feet)
or overcoming other obstacles for the opportunity.
To
date, there is limited data on coyote incidents in Orange County. A
study done in 2003 by UC reported that, on a statewide basis, there
were 281 pet incidents and 48 human confrontations. As a percent of
the State’s total population, these numbers are minute.
Nevertheless, caution is always warranted. With that in mind,
experts recommend the following steps:
·
Fence pet and animal enclosures completely, if
possible include a top.
·
Keep cats and small dogs indoors. When walking small
dogs, always keep them on a leash.
·
Coyotes are most active dusk to dawn. Avoid walking
pets after dark.
·
Bring along pepper spray or a stick in case a coyote
gets aggressive. Screaming or yelling and waving arms sometimes
won't work on coyotes that have lost their fear of humans.
·
Any pet smaller than 45 pounds should never be left
outside past 4 p.m.
·
Feed pets indoors. Eliminate potential food and water
sources such as fallen fruit or vegetables and standing water.
·
Store trash in covered, heavy-duty containers.
·
Keep yards free of potential hiding places. Remove
thick brush and weeds. Enclose the bottoms of porches and decks.
·
If you encounter a coyote that behaves aggressively,
you have probably gotten too close to its prey or its family. Try to
scare the coyote by yelling and waving your arms. Throw rocks,
sticks or other objects. Do not turn away and run.
·
Do not feed coyotes. Doing so can make them less
afraid of humans and potentially more dangerous.
Rosemary
Flynn
Naturalist
Sources
for the above information: Dr. June Crook of Animal Urgent Care of
South Orange County; Orange County Animal Care Services; other
agencies.
References for the Tracks article
The Field Guide to the Mammals of the
America North of Mexico by William H. Burt and Richard P.
Grossenheider
Wild
Dogs of the World by Lois E. Butler; Stein and Day, New York, New
York; 1973
Wild Dogs; The Wolves, Coyotes and Foxes of North
America, Erwin Bauer, Chronicle Books, 1994
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