With spring in the air, Santa Clarita wildlife experts are warning residents to take caution as coyotes are starting to become more territorial and aggressive as mating season is upon them.
With the mating season in full swing for coyotes, they are coming down into residential areas that back up to the mountains and open lands such as Castaic, Stevenson Ranch and Val Verde, said Frank Hoffman, better known as Ranger Frank, with the Placerita Nature Center.
“It is their ‘happy time’ right now,” Ranger Frank said. “This is the time of year when coyotes are typically going to be more aggressive, protecting territories and raising and feeding young.”
Over the last several weeks, coyotes have been spotted in the Castaic area roaming backyards and not seeming to be fazed when confronted by people.
While part of the reason why coyotes are aggressive is due to mating season, Ranger Frank explained that recent fires, lack of rain and construction are also factors in driving the wildlife out of the mountains to find new food and water sources.
Without plant matter to take to survive on, coyotes are coming down to look for other types of food including domestic animals, according to officials.
Wildlife officials have offered Santa Clarita residents whose homes back up to the mountains a few pieces of advice to keep the unwanted canines out of their yards.
The most common attractions for coyotes are food, water and shelter, according to Ranger Frank.
Pick up all fallen fruit from trees, as smaller animals are attracted to the fruit, which in turn attracts coyotes.
Keep bushes and vegetation trimmed back to help prevent rodents from making your yards their homes.
Installing motion-sensitive lighting around houses can also help deter coyotes.
Officials are also encouraging and warning residents to not leave food or trash accessible to the wildlife.
“It is illegal to feed wildlife,” Ranger Frank said.
Wildlife experts also say that because coyotes are being fed, whether it be directly or indirectly, animals are becoming less afraid of humans.
“A lot of animals have unfortunately also been fed by people so they’re becoming less and less afraid of folks and potentially more aggressive in trying to get more from anyone they encounter,” Frank said.
In the event anyone is being followed by a coyote, they are encouraged to make loud noises, and if that fails to scare the animal away, “throw rocks at them,” according to officials with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
It is highly encouraged that if anyone is attacked by a wild animal to contact their local law enforcement and seek medical attention.
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