UPDATE:
How to Protect your Pets from Coyotes.
Coyotes and People: What to Know If You See or Encounter a Coyote
Human-coyote encounters—and coyote attacks—are rare
- Attacks on people by coyotes are very rare and are usually preventable through changes in human behavior. Dawn Macheca
An encounter with a coyote in the urban and suburban landscape is a rare event, even where coyotes are found in large numbers.
These animals are generally nocturnal and seldom seen. You may catch a glimpse of a coyote, however, as she moves from one part of her territory to another in search of prey (usually small mammals such as mice or voles).
Observing a coyote in this manner (even during the daytime) does not mean that the coyote is sick or aggressive. If the coyote is scared away by your presence, she is exhibiting natural behavior and this should not be cause for concern.
Coyotes, Pets and Community Cats
What you need to know about protecting your pets and community cats from coyotes
- Coyotes are valuable in urban ecosystems as major predators of mice, rats, and Canada geese (species considered by some to be “pests”). Dawn Macheca.
Many people assume that coyotes don't live in suburban or urban neighborhoods because they don't see them. But that assumption can be dangerous for your animal companions.
Coyotes typically hunt small mammals such as mice, voles, and rabbits. If given the opportunity, they will also make a meal of a cat, tame or feral.
Dogs, especially smaller breeds, are also at risk, although attacks on them are more rare.
The best way to protect your pets is to let them outside only when you are with them—especially at night—and to keep pet food and water inside.
Coyote Over population in Southern California ?
