Coyotes are wild animals that live and hunt in their natural habitats. However, they become a problem in urban areas when they increase in numbers and cause problems for people and pets. It is essential to understand the behavior of these predators to avoid conflicts and improve our relationship with them.

Prey

Coyotes have become accustomed to human activity in cities across Southern California as they learn that people provide them with food and shelter. As a result, they may be more aggressive and unafraid of humans than ever before. This can lead to increased attacks on pets or other coyotes and increased harassment of residents. How to keep coyotes away? Trapping is one option to control coyotes, especially in areas where people have been attacked. If you’re concerned about a coyote, contact your local animal control department to schedule an inspection and, if warranted, trapping. Trapping should only be done on private property. It is often costly and time-consuming, but it can keep coyotes away from areas causing problems.

Habitat

Urban coyotes have become increasingly savvy and comfortable around humans. This is especially true in cities, where they have found that they can easily create territories within parks and open spaces surrounded by human-related habitats such as golf courses, greenbelts, buildings, sheds, decks, crawl spaces, and overgrown landscaping. Habitat for these predators includes food, water, and shelter and can be located anywhere in the city, even in residential areas. The key is to understand and address the behaviors of these animals so that they can stay out of the way of people, pets, and their yards. Avoid unintentionally feeding coyotes, such as inappropriate composting, fruit from fruit trees left on the ground, pet food/water bowls, barbeque grills, and sheds and house doors (garage) left open. In addition, remove water sources in dry climates, clean up fallen fruit, and pick up trash that may be accessible to wildlife. Securely store all garbage, including pet food, in a locked container until pick-up is scheduled.

Predators

Predators such as coyotes, foxes, and rats are often seen in and around urban areas. This is a result of habitat change and human behavior. In some cities, predators have learned to make a living off other wildlife by raiding trash cans. The same scenarios occur in other parts of the country, whether rural or urban. Some coyotes become habituated to human presence, making them less wary and more likely to attack pets or livestock. This is a concern because it can lead to deadly conflicts and injuries to children or pets. The best way to prevent confrontations with coyotes is to remove all food resources from their territory. This is costly and time-consuming, but it’s the only way to keep coyotes in check.

Prevention

Preventing coyotes from encountering people is the primary goal of urban coyote management. This can be achieved by eliminating wildlife food sources such as bird feeders, unsecured compost, and trash. Eliminating coyote attractants also helps reduce conflict between animals and humans. A full-color coyote hazing field guide can help you learn how to use this powerful tool for keeping coyotes at a distance by reinforcing the natural wariness of human beings.