Coyote Information

A number of people have contacted us recently about seeing coyotes, so we thought we’d share some great information straight from the City of Newport Beach website:

Coyotes are found in ALL areas of Orange County – and Newport Beach is no exception. 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. Several residents have lost their pets to these skilled predators because they were not aware of local coyote activity. Others are concerned about recent sightings and the potential consequences of predatory animals within the urban environment.

Eradication and/or relocation of the urban coyote is not effective. Theses types of programs actually provide a vacuum in nature that causes these animals to have even larger litters and ultimately increase the coyote population. Coyotes are beneficial in keeping balance within the ecosystem by controlling the population of other small animals and rodents.

Though far from domesticated, coyotes are very comfortable living alongside humans. They have little fear of people and are frequently seen in close proximity to joggers and bikers, and inside residential areas. Coyotes are not normally a danger to humans but small pets can easily become coyote prey.

Check out this great article on what to do if you encounter a coyote while walking your dog.

Coyote Hazing

Use a variety of hazing tools to frighten coyotes and deter them from backyards and play spaces:

• Stand tall, wave your arms, and yell, approaching the coyote if necessary
• Use noisemakers (your voice, whistles, bells, or “shaker” cans filled with marbles or pennies)
• Throw items such as sticks, small rocks, cans, tennis balls or rubber balls
• Spray the coyote with a garden hose or from a spray bottle filled with vinegar water
• More tips on Coyote Hazing can be found on the Humane Society website.

 

Protect Your Pets

Cats and small animals should not be allowed outside alone, even in a fenced yard. (A dog or cat can be taken from a backyard enclosed by a six-foot high fence or wall in a matter of moments.) It is highly recommended that small pets are always accompanied by their owner when outside. Coyotes generally hunt between sunset and sunrise, but can be observed at all hours of the day and will not pass up the opportunity to attack easy prey.

Preventative Measures

Protect yourself and your pets:

• Fence off animal enclosures (fully enclose them, if possible)
• Keep cats and small dogs indoors
• Feed pets indoors
• Store trash in covered heavy-duty containers
• Keep yards free from potential shelter, such as thick brush and weeds
• Enclose the bottoms of porches and decks
• Eliminate potential food and water sources, such as fallen fruit and standing water
• Never feed coyotes

 

Stay Connected

• To report coyote activity, call 949-644-3656.
• For help with an Animal Control issue, call 949-644-3717.