Newport Beach police issued a warning last week to remind residents to take extra precautions to keep pets from becoming coyote prey.
According to Newport Beach police, several residents have lost their pets from coyote attacks. Most recently a resident said a pack of coyotes was seen off of Cliff Drive, but police spokeswoman Jennifer Manzella said the department did not receive a call about the alleged coyote incident. In May another resident said her small dog was killed by a coyote while they were on a walk near Westcliff Drive and Irvine Avenue. Police had no record of the attack at the time.
Coyotes are found in all areas of Orange County and are comfortable living alongside people. Authorities said coyotes have little fear of people and are often seen walking through neighborhoods, near joggers and bikers. Although coyotes are not normally a danger to people, coyotes will get defensive if they feel threatened or cornered.
Though coyotes generally hunt between sunset and sunrise, authorities said they are active at all hours of the day and night.
Coyote Safety Tips
Have you seen coyotes in your neighborhood? Tell us where in the comments.
Coyotes are found in all areas of Orange County and are comfortable living alongside people. Authorities said coyotes have little fear of people and are often seen walking through neighborhoods, near joggers and bikers. Although coyotes are not normally a danger to people, coyotes will get defensive if they feel threatened or cornered.
Though coyotes generally hunt between sunset and sunrise, authorities said they are active at all hours of the day and night.
Coyote Safety Tips
- Fence off animal enclosures (fully-enclosed, if possible).
- Cats, small dogs, and other small animals should not be allowed outside alone, even in a fenced area. It is highly recommended that small pets are always accompanied by their owner when outside the home, and that pets are not left in yards overnight.
- Keep dogs on a leash (at a maximum length of six feet) at all times. Extendable leashes do not meet the requirements of the Newport Beach Municipal Code, and will not adequately prevent your dog from becoming the victim of a coyote attack.
- Feed your pets indoors.
- Eliminate potential food and water sources, such as fallen fruit and standing water.
- Store trash in heavy-duty containers.
- Keep yards free of potential shelter materials, such as thick brush or weeds.
- Enclose the bottoms of porches and decks.
- If a coyote begins frequenting your neighborhood, let them know that they are not welcome. Make loud noises, show an aggressive posture, or spray them with a garden hose to deter them from approaching your property.
Have you seen coyotes in your neighborhood? Tell us where in the comments.
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