Controlling Coyotes

August 2, 2018

Question: I live in Oceanside, and many of my neighbors report having their pets snatched from them, often in the middle of the day. I lost one of my cats who scooted out before I could stop him. While I know the heartache of losing a pet to coyotes, I’m still concerned about some of the methods neighbors are using to keep coyotes from their properties. What is a good source of not only what’s recommended to do when faced with coyotes but also what you cannot do to protect property and pets? (Mary)

Answer: Information and tips about managing coyotes in urban neighborhoods can be found at www.wildlife.ca.gov/keepmewild. Most human/wildlife conflicts are caused by providing access to food, water or shelter. Keep small pets indoors at night, dusk and dawn. Do not leave pet food or water bowls outside. Make sure fences, animal pens and dog runs are secure.

Coyotes are a native non-game species that form family groups, rather than packs. Coyotes may be hunted at any time of year and in any number under the authority of a hunting license. Although we advocate taking preventative measures when possible, coyotes may also be killed at any time if they are a public safety threat or harassing, harming or killing pets and livestock – no state permit required. Local county/city firearms ordinances and laws must be followed and some areas may restrict or prohibit the discharge of a firearm or other activities like setting traps. Resolving coyote conflicts and protecting pets or livestock on private property are the responsibility of the landowner (or local jurisdiction). You may want to check with your city to see if they have developed their own coyote management plan specific to the community.

CDFW does not trap and relocate coyotes that are causing human/wildlife conflicts. Relocation does not solve the issue, it only moves the problem to another location and it is likely that other wildlife will take its place or the same animal will return. However, if a coyote is perceived as a threat to public safety, please notify local law enforcement or contact a CDFW office in your area.