10 Staff Report - Amending Chapter 4 , Article 1SOW N OF
COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
G A ~S
DATE: January 14, 2005
TO: MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL
FROM: ORRY P. KORB, TOWN ATTORNEY
MEETING DATE: 1/18/05
ITEM NO. ;
SUBJECT: INTRODUCE ORDINANCE AMENDING TOWN CODE, CHAPTER 4,
ARTICLE I, REPEALING SECTION 4.10.085 CONCERNING STEEL
ANIMAL TRAPS
RECOMMENDATION:
a. Direct the Clerk Administrator to read the title.
b. Waive the reading
c. Introduce the ordinance and instruct the Clerk Administrator to publish a summary no
more than five days prior to adoption.
BACKGROUND:
On November 3, 1998, Proposition 4 was approved adding section 3003.1 to the Fish and Game
Code prohibiting all forms of body-gripping traps except where authorized federal, state, county or
municipal government employees determine that the use of a padded jaw leghold trap was necessary
to protect human health or safety. However, pre-existing language in Town Code section 4.10.085,
adopted in 1994, caused County Vector Control to erroneously conclude that it was prohibited from
exercising its statutory authority under section 3003.1 in the Town.
This error was corrected on September 7, 2004, when Council directed the Town Attorney to notify
Vector Control that the Town Code did not prohibit the use of padded jaw leghold traps by
authorized government employees to protect public health and safety. This was possible because
Fish and Game Code section 3003.1 effectively preempted Town Code section 4.10.085, which
should now be repealed in order to avoid further confusion. The proposed ordinance (Attachment
1) would repeal Town Code section 4.10.085.
Coincidental with the preparation of this report was the receipt of a letter with attachments from the
County Animal Advisory Commission dated January 6, 2005. A copy is provided solely for
PREPARED BY: ORRY P. KORB, TOWN ATTORNEY
OPK:LMB/wp [N:\MGRWdmintorkFiles\cnc pts\Trap-Repea1.TCR.wpd]
Reviewed by:
Manager _ Assistant Town Manager Clerk Administrator
Finance Community Development
Rev: 1/14/05 4:26 pm
Reformatted: 7/19/99
File# 301-05
PAGE 2
MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL
SUBJECT: INTRODUCE ORDINANCE AMENDING TOWN CODE, CHAPTER 4,
ARTICLE 1, REPEALING SECTION 4.10.085 CONCERNING STEEL
ANIMAL TRAPS
January 14, 2005
Council's information (Attachment 2). The Commission argues against trapping and killing coyotes
as a means of controlling their populations in urban areas. The Commission recommends alternative
methods including educational outreach, enforcement of city/county codes and the aggressive
implementation of integrated methods of coexistence with wildlife. The details are discussed in the
letter.
The Town neither approves nor promotes any specific method of controlling coyotes. Its past actions
and the action now proposed only serve to confirm the authority granted County Vector Control
pursuant to Fish and Game Code section 3003.1. Thus, the concerns raised by the Animal Advisory
Commission are not relevant to the recommended action.
Attachments:
1. Proposed Ordinance
2. Letter dated January 6, 2005 from County Animal Advisory Commission
ORDINANCE
AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS AMENDING
TOWN CODE CHAPTER 4, ARTICLE I, BY REPEALING
SECTION 4.10.085 CONCERNING STEEL ANIMAL TRAPS
WHEREAS, Town Code section 4.10.085 was adopted in 1994 in order to prohibit the
use of steel jawed traps as defined in Fish and Game Code section 4004;
WHEREAS, an initiative entitled Proposition 4 was approved on November 3, 1998,
adding section 3003.1 to the Fish and Game Code to prohibit all forms of body-gripping traps,
except where authorized federal, state, county, or municipal government employees determine
that the use of a padded jaw leghold trap is necessary to protect human health or safety;
WHEREAS, Town Code section 4.10.085 has caused confusion regarding the authority
of authorized county employees to use padded jaw leghold traps to protect human health or
safety in Los Gatos; and
WHEREAS, in light of the prohibition contained in Fish and Town Code section 3003. 1,
Town Code section 4.10.085 is no longer necessary and should be repealed in order to avoid
further confusion regarding the authority of authorized county employees to use padded jaw
leghold traps to protect human health or safety in Los Gatos.
THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS ORDAINS:
SECTION I
Chapter 4, Article I, is amended by repealing section 4.10.085.
SECTION II
In the event that any part of this ordinance is held to be invalid, the invalid part or parts shall
be severed from the remaining portions which shall remain in full force and effect.
Page ] of 2
ATTACHMENT 1
SECTION III
This Ordinance was introduced at a regular meeting of the Town Council of the Town of Los
Gatos on , 2005, and adopted by the following vote as an Ordinance of the Town of Los
Gatos at a meeting of the Town Council of the Town of Los Gatos on , 2005. This
Ordinance takes effect 30 days after it is adopted.
COUNCIL MEMBERS:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
SIGNED:
MAYOR OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS
LOS GATOS, CALIFORNIA
ATTEST:
CLERK OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS
LOS GATOS, CALIFORNIA
N AATY\Trap-Repeal .OR D. wpd
N:AATY\Trap-Repeal.ORD.wpd
Page 2 of 2
County of Santa Clara
Animal Advisory Commission
County Government Center, East Wing
70 West Hedding Street
San Jose, California 95110-1768
(408) 299-4321 FAX 298-8460 TDD 993-8272
RECEIVED
JAN 11 2005
MAYUR & TOWN CQUNI.
January 6, 2005
Mayor Steve Glickman
Town of Los Gatos
110 East Main Street
Los Gatos, CA 95030
Dear Mayor Glickman:
The Santa Clara County Animal Advisory Commission would like to bring to your attention that at the
request of the Town of Los Gatos, Vector Control has recently trapped and killed four coyotes in Los
Gatos. Other areas in the county, specifically Monte Sereno and "Villas of Almaden" in the City of San
Jose are considering changing local ordinances to allow for the use of leghold traps in lethally
controlling coyote populations.
Experiences in surrounding communities such as Portola Valley, San Ramon, and Scotts Valley have
shown that the most effective way to address urban/suburban wildlife conflicts is through proactive
public education at the community level. Assistance is available to any community by collaborating
with agencies that resolve human animal conflicts by taking a more integrated approach. We want to
work toward developing an effective, long-term program to coexist with coyotes and other urban
wildlife species.
Scientific studies have shown that trapping and killing coyotes is a short-sighted response and does not
work- it only serves to exacerbate the problem. Studies have also demonstrated that lethal coyote
control is most often ineffective and counterproductive because of a coyote population's ability to
rebound after lethal removal efforts. Killing coyotes is also a waste of money and resources. Instead, the
Commission advocates educational outreach, enforcement of city/county codes and the aggressive
implementation of integrated methods of coexistence with wildlife. The Santa Clara County Animal
Advisory Commission recommends the following:
1. A highly publicized information campaign divulging the consequences of intentional or
unintentional feeding of coyotes.
2. Active and persistent enforcement of existing ordinances that prohibit the feeding of wildlife,
containment of pets within residences and mandate the proper disposal of garbage.
3. Close supervision of children and pets in areas frequented by coyotes, including backyards.
4. Prompt and direct investigation of any reports of coyote encounters; immediate follow-up and
verification of actual coyote involvement and of the conditions under which it occurred;
identification of problems that might attract coyotes. (Vector Control does report incidents to
Department of Fish and Game; perhaps a more localized reporting system would be advisable
Attachment 2
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Letter to: Mayor Steve Glickman
Town of Los Gatos
Subject: Coyotes
5. The formation of a committee or organization of citizens to deal with coyotes and other animals
in the city on a long-term basis by providing and receiving information, and by being an avenue
for residents to handle concerns about animals before they become problems. It should be open
to all interested residents, meeting regularly, either as a private group or with city affiliation.
6. Cooperation should be implemented with neighboring cities to encourage area-wide responsible
management of the environment so that possible coyote encounters can be minimized.
7. In the event that there is one problematic animal, and all other measures have been unsuccessful,
euthanasia will be the last resort. We recommend that any euthanasia be performed by lethal
injection at an authorized facility, i.e. a local animal control agency or wildlife rehabilitation
center.
The coyote is an integral part of our environment and it plays an important role in our ecology. The
degree of success achieved by these recommendations depends largely on how actively communities
employ such measures. This Commission strongly urges the immediate implementation of its
recommendations to this end.
In addition, the Commission strongly advises against trapping because of the inherent indiscriminate
nature of traps that pose a hazard to non-target animals, including companion animals and children -
especially in urbanized areas. Prior to being killed the animal can experience a long period of pain,
stress and trauma before being removed from the trap. It will lead to temporary reduction in the local
population; however that will cause other problems, such as rodent explosion or the arrival of other wild
animals, creating an imbalance in the community. Instead, we would like to see a more permanent and
humane approach to sharing our living space with native and endemic wild animals.
Enclosed is a copy of the Wildlife Center of Silicon Valley's "Coyote Solutions," as well as Little Blue
Society's "Coexisting with Coyotes" packet with further information on avoiding conflicts with coyotes.
A number of other communities, animal control facilities and humane societies use these packets with
excellent success. Also enclosed are "Tips for Living with Coyotes."
Thank you for you time and consideration regarding this matter.
Sincerely,
SANTA CLARA COUNTY ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION
Carole Miller, Chairperson
Enclosures
Tips for Living with Coyotes
• Never feed or attempt to "tame" a coyote.
• Store trash in tightly-lidded containers, prevented
from tipping over by a rope or chain.
• Do not leave pet food outside and bring pets in at
night.
• Pick up fallen fruit and cover compost piles.
• Fence yards and/or animal enclosures with wire mesh
at least six feet tall and extending six inches below the
ground.
• Install an automatic lighting system around the house.
• If followed by a coyote, make loud noises. If this fails,
throw rocks in the animal's direction.
Coyote Solutions
Villas of Almaden
San Jose
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Prepared by the Wildlife Center of Silicon Valley
3027 Penitencia Creek Road
San Jose, California 95132
(408)929-WILD
Villas of Almaden Challenges
Natural History of Coyotes
Why the Villas?
Problems with Lethal "Control"
Coyote Behavior - Body Language
Coyote Encounters
Deterring Coyote
Keeping Companion Animals Safe
Safeguarding Other Animals
Wildlife Sighting Logs
Coyote
Deer
Rodents
Contacts
3
4
5
6
7-8
9
14-12
13
14
15-18
19
2
Villas of Almaden Challenges
The Villas of Almaden housing complex in San Jose has reported increase
coyote activity for the past 18 months. The community reports that locax
coyote have killed several domestic cats and a small dog has been attacked
as well. Many neighbors fear they are being stalked and that the coyote
presents a danger to human safety.
The Villas Home Owners Association raised this issue with Vector Control,
local media and. San Jose City Council. In October of 2004, San Jose City
Council voted against a change in city ordinance to allow leg hold trapping
in lieu of an aggressive education program.
The Wildlife Center of Silicon Valley is responding with the attached
plan of action to reduce coyote populations and secure safe co-existence
with this important species.
Natural History of Coyotes
Coyotes typically weigh 20-50 pounds and are similar to a tan-colored
Shepherd-type dog. Native to the western two-thirds of North America, the
coyote has expanded its range throughout the entire continent, largely due to
the eradication of larger predators including wolves, cougars, and grizzly
bears by humans.
Coyotes live in pairs or larger family units, or in small packs, and a strong
social hierarchy generally limits reproduction to the group's leaders: the
"alpha" mated pair. While loners exist, they are most often found in heavily
hunted populations or when young males leave their pack.
Coyotes are predators, occupying the biological niche between foxes and
wolves and as such play an integral role in their environment by helping to
maintain natural ecosystems. Omnivorous by nature, coyotes feed on a wide
variety of mammals, insects and fruit, though rodents, vegetation, and
insects are generally their main food source.
Their intelligence and opportunistic feeding habits allow coyotes to survive,
but it also puts them in conflict with humans, especially in agricultural
regions, as well as in urban and suburban areas.
Historically, society has attempted to solve human/coyote conflicts, whether
in agricultural regions and more recently in suburban areas, by killing them.
Despite years of poisoning, trapping, neck snaring, and shooting coyotes,
there are more of them in North America today than ever before.
Biologists have long recognized the role of coyotes in controlling rodent
populations. A significant and growing body of research asserts that the
presence of large carnivore species, such as coyote also preserves species
diversity. One study in suburban San Diego found that by controlling the
numbers of smaller carnivores, including grey fox, raccoon, striped skunk,
opossum, and domestic cats in highly fragmented ecosystems, coyotes
actually help preserve populations of native birds that would have otherwise
been eaten by the smaller carnivores.
4
I Why the Villas?
Urban sprawl and habitat encroachment are the main reasons behind
increased wild animal sightings and challenges. The loss of open space d
natural habitat has decreased territories and disrupted predator-prey cyclc'~
A reduction in natural food sources along with plentiful human provided
alternatives have given deer, raccoons, opossums, squirrels, birds and coyote
ample opportunity to flourish on unfamiliar diets.
The proximity of the Villas development borders on natural habitat and.
ancient corridors. Wild animals don't differentiate between undeveloped
land and developed land. Coyotes will migrate to areas that support them by
offering food and shelter.
Coyotes are opportunistic feeders and have thrived on the ready source of
food the Villas offer in forms of unsecured food, bird feeders and the rodents
they attract, healthy deer populations as well as unattended domestic pets.
5
Problems with Lethal "Control"
The coyote's success appears to be directly related in part to lethal attempts
to manipulate its population (also due to eradication of wolves and bears).
As with many wild species, coyote populations are naturally regulated by
available food and habitat. Lethal control, however, can disrupt the pack
hierarchy, causing members to disperse, allows more coyotes to reproduce,
and encourages larger litter sizes because of decreased competition for food
and habitat. Lethal control also ensures that only the most resilient coyotes
survive.
Most wild coyotes fear humans. However, those that learn to associate
humans with food may become habituated. Habituated coyotes now frequent
suburban areas, taking advantage of abundant food, water, and shelter.
Unsecured garbage, unfenced gardens, and unattended domestic animals
become easy targets. However, documented cases of coyotes biting humans
are extremely rare and most often w 1
caused by humans feeding coyotes.
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Note: Trapping and relocation of
covotes is not recommended.
Disruption of family groups can cause
orphaned juveniles to seek easy prey
such as small dogs and cats. In
addition, coyotes will move into the
vacated area.
Coyote in leg-hold trap
6
Coyote Behavior-Body Language
Visual Communication
Several parts of the coyote's body provide important sources of vi,,,
signals. Of most importance are.the mouth (including teeth, lips,
tongue), eyes, ears, hackles, and tail.
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Coyote Behavior-Body Language
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A. Passive-submissive
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B. Submission with tail tucked, and defensive threat face.
C. Defensive threat with tail low but not tucked and defensive threat
face.
D. Aggressive threat with tail raised. Shoulder and neck hairs
piloerected, ears in forward position, legs stiff, and mouth in an
aggressive threat gape.
8
Coyote Encounters
Since coyotes by nature are wary of humans they will avoid people
whenever possible. If you encounter a coyote remember the
following:
• Never feed or attempt to "tame" a coyote.
• Avoid direct eye contact.
• Do not turn your back or run from a coyote.
• Attempt to leave the area calmly.
• If followed by a coyote, make loud noises and make yourself look
big. If this fails, throw rocks. Use super soakers (large-sized squirt
guns).
• Always keep yourself between the coyote and small children.
Coyotes are not considered a disease threat. Outbreaks of rabies in
coyotes are rare and they are not commonly implicated in the
transmission of the disease to humans or domestic animals.
9
Deterring Coyote
A successful program must be enacted from several avenues
including city services and the community at hand.
The following outline requires the commitment of all involved.
Deterring Coyote-Wildlife Center of Silicon Valley
Action
o Develop and promote an aggressive education campaign.
o Measure and report results via logs and on-site visits.
o Remain available for phone calls of questions and concerns.
Quantify and document calls.
o Produce public services announcements and distribute to local
radio, television and websites.
o Utilize media resources to expand this education program.
A Public Service Announcement for the Wildlife Center of
Silicon Valley
:30, :60
:30 Suburban sprawl increases encounters with wildlife including coyotes. While
incidents between coyotes and people are quite rare, care should be taken to protect
companion animals like cats and small dogs. Store trash in containers with tight lids.
Clear away brush and fallen fruit. Keep pets and their food inside at night, and never
feed any wild mammal. For more information call the Wildlife Center of Silicon
Valley at 408-929-9453 or visit wesv.org.
:60 As suburbs grow, so do encounters with coyotes and other wild animals. Coyotes
actually help balance the natural environment. Although incidents between coyotes and
people are unlikely, the Wildlife Center of Silicon Valley offers these tips for
coexisting with our coyote neighbors: store trash in containers with tight lids. Clear
brush and weeds away from homes and remove fallen fruit- To protect pets, especially
cats and small dogs, don't let them roam, and always use a leash when walking your dog.
Bring animals and their food inside at night and never feed coyotes or other wild
mammals. For more information about living with wildlife call the Wildlife Center of
Silicon Valley at 408-929-9453 or visit wcsv.org. That number again, 408-929-9453.
10
rr- Coyote-City Services _ _ Action
o Locate, disturb and close existing dens prior to mating season-
o Uphold state and city ordinances pertaining to wildlife.
o Uphold state and city human health and safety codes in regarri_5
to feeding, harboring and supporting vector populations.
CALIFORNIA CODES
HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE
SECTION 2060-2067
2061. (a) Whenever a public nuisance exists on any property within a district or on any property
that is located outside the district from which vectors may enter the district, the board of trustees
may
notify the owner of the property of the existence of the public nuisance.
Deterring Coyote-Community Action
Coyotes are drawn to urban and suburban neighborhoods for two
reasons: human encroachment into native habitat and the
availability of food.
• Secure garbage cans by fastening lids with rope, bungee cords, or
chains and tying the handle to a stake driven into the ground. Put
garbage out the morning of pickup, not the night before.
• Dispose of especially attractive food wastes such as meat, cheese,
and eggs by adding a small amount of ammonia to the bag to deter
coyotes.
• When composting, use enclosed bins rather than exposed piles.
Avoid adding dog or cat waste, meat, mills or eggs, and any food
containing these products, to compost.
• If you have fruit trees, pick the ripe fruit and keep fallen fruit off
the ground. Coyotes are fond of ripe fruit.
• Outdoor lights triggered by motion sensors can keep coyotes from
approaching too close to your house at night.
• Clear away bushes and dense weeds near your home where coyotes
find cover and animals to feed on.
12.
Keeping Companion Animals Safe Cats and small dogs could be seen as prey to the coyote, while lar>'
dogs could be injured in a confrontation. To avoid these situations
consider the following:
Fence your property or yard. The fence must be at least six feet tall
with the bottom extending at least six inches below the ground.
Fences can be made more effective by outwardly inverting the top
of the fence or by using electric fencing along the top and bottom.
Keep animals in at night (coyotes are active both during the day
and at night, but under cover of darkness, might be more likely to
attack a pet.)
If you allow your cats to go outside unattended and there is little or
no natural tree cover, you can help protect your cat by installing
"cat posts." Cat posts can be any type of long climbable wooden
post (4x4 or corner posts) that stands out of the ground at least six
to eight feet with a platform on top for the cat to rest on. The post
will provide the cat with an opportunity to escape from a pursuing
coyote.
Don't leave pet food outside.
Vaccinate your animals (transmission of disease from coyotes to
domestic animals is extremely rare).
Spay or neuter your dogs. Coyotes are attracted to, and can mate
with, unspayed or unneutered domestic dogs. Male coyotes will be
attracted to unspayed female dogs and unneutered male dogs could
be lured away by an ovulating female coyote and be killed by male
coyotes.
11
Safeguarding Other Animals
Coyotes are primarily rodent eaters and scavengers (rodents comprise
90% of coyotes' diets). However, they can harm or kill animals kept
outside such as chickens, rabbits, goats and sheep. To reduce the risk to
outside animals, take the following precautions:
• Keep animals within a fenced area. The fence must be wire mesh
and at least six feet tall with the bottom extending at least six
inches below the ground. Electric fencing with five to nine strands
is also very effective in deterring coyotes.
• Keep animals closed in a secure shelter at night (coyotes can be
active at night).
• Fright devices, such as sirens and sensor lights, may help deter
coyotes from closely approaching animal housing areas.
• Use guard animals. Llamas, donkeys, and special guard dogs have
proved effective in reducing or eliminating coyote predation of
pastured animals.
• Provide rabbits with a wire-covered enclosure with fencing buried
below the ground. Provide an escape shelter with an opening just
small enough for the rabbit to enter. (Cages are not recommended
because rabbits may be attacked through the cage or die of stress
as they frantically try to find cover.)
14
Wildlife Sighting Logs
By eliminating food and shelter and by making it undesirable for
coyotes to stay within the Villas compounds we should see a
measurable reduction in populations. Please use the attached logs to
document coyote, deer and rodent sightings.
Is
Coyote Sighting Log
There is a vast difference between seeing a coyote and being stalked by one. Review
coyote behavior on page 7 & 8 and note the physical. distance, poise and behavior of each
occurrence. WCSV will summarize this data weekly and publish the findings to San Jose
City Council and the Villas. This information will provide tangible evidence of the
determent plans effectiveness.
Date Time Location Behavior
I
_ De_ 1 1
Why deer? Robust deer populations support coyote populations by offering an addi;
food source. Though coyotes are unable to bring down a healthy full-grown deer, t
can prey upon the sick and weak along with spring fawns. By reducing the deer herd
within the Villas compound now and keeping them out in the spring we reduce yet
another attractant.
Date Time Location Behavior
17
Rodent Sighting Log
Why rodents? Rodents are a natural diet for coyote. In the ecosystem coyotes are
responsible for keeping rodent populations in check by consuming rats, gophers, moles,
rabbits, mice and other small species. Within the Villas, bird feeders attract not only
birds but rodents that feed on seed as well. A reduced rodent population will assist
greatly in reducing coyote challenges.
Date Time Location Behavior
18
Contact - Information:
Wildlife Center of Silicon Valley
Janet Alexander
Director of Operations
(408) 929-9453 x303
e-mail: janet_alexander@msn.com
Trudi Burney
Director of Education
City liaison
(408) 348-2095
e-mail: wcsvedu@yahoo.com
19
URBAN WILDLIFE INFORMATIONAL NETWORK
W I ~
U N
CO-EXISTING WITH THE COYOTE
The fact that you have received this package indicates that you and the coyote
have "interacted" in some way, that brought you to contact this office. We hope that the
materials enclosed will be of some help to you in finding ways to peacefully co-exist with
this long-term resident of Northern California.
The coyote issue has been a very emotional and often debated one in California.
While there are very articulate and passionate representatives at both ends of the
spectrum, the prevalent scientific view prescribes educated co-existence as the only
realistic long term solution for coyote-human conflict, That is the hoped for result of
your acceptance of the enclosed materials. When our entire community accepts
responsibility for those measures which prevent or mitigate coyote-human conflict, we
shall see far fewer incidents and losses of pets and property. Your cooperation in that
regard is both essential and welcomed.
Please do not hesitate to re-contact this office if you have future needs in this area.
email: mary@littlebluesociety.org phone: (650) 465-7371
email: Jon.Cicirelli@sanjoseca.gov phone: (408) 578-7297
email: janet_alexander@msn.com phone: (408) 929-9453
Little Blue Society • City of San Jose Animal Services • City of San Jose Animal Advisory Committee
Wildlife Center of Silicon Valley -Santa Clara County Animal Advisory Commission • San Mateo County
Parks and Recreation Division San Mateo County Fish and Wildlife Advisory Committee • California
Department of Fish and Game Mid-Peninsula Regional Open Space District • City of Walnut Creek
Open Space • Peninsula Humane Society • USDA Wildlife Services • City of Belmont Police Department
World Ethics Forum Switzerland • City of San Ramon • Town of Portola Valley Conservation Committee
City of San Ramon • City of Scotts Valley • Audubon Society • Humane Society of the United States
c r e a t e d & s p o n s o r e d b y L i t t l e B l u e S o c i e t y
URBAN WILDLIFE INFORMATIONAL NETWORK
W i
u N
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A QUICK GUIDE FOR CO-EXISTING WITH THE COYOTE
The coyote weighs 20 to 30 pounds and stands 23 to 25 inches at the shoulder. In appearance,
the coyote looks similar to a tan colored shepherd-type dog with long pointed muzzle, large ears,
long legs, and a bushy, black-tipped tail.
The coyote is an extremely intelligent predator that has adapted to living in close proximity to
humans. The coyote whose natural habitat has shrunk as the human population has expanded,
has adjusted very successfully to living closer to humans, sometimes in parks, open space lands,
and along freeways.
Coyotes may use trails, roads, creek beds, flood control channels, and highways as convenient
routes for travel. In addition to natural sources of water, they have been known to drink from
swimming pools, street gutters, leaking hose faucets, and sprinkler heads, birdbaths and pet
dishes.
Although the coyote is an excellent hunter, feeding primarily on rats, mice, ground squirrels,
rabbits, insects, carrion and fruit, it will not hesitate to kill cats, small dogs, poultry, sheep, or goats
if given the opportunity. They can learn that domestic animals are easier or more available prey
than wild animals.
Domestic animals such as chickens, rabbits and other small animals often kept outdoors should be
kept in well protected areas and in sturdy cages. Cages constructed of chicken wire may not be
strong enough to deter a determined coyote. Stronger gauge wire is recommended. Yard fencing
should be at least 5 - 5 112 feet high, angled outward, and with the bottom of the fencing buried
underground.
Coyotes are wild animals and should be treated as such. No attempt should be made to pet or
feed or otherwise make contact with them. The coyote's natural fear of humans should not be
compromised. This is the most effective way to prevent confrontations.
Residents, especially those living near open space or wild lands are advised to give special
attention to the following DO'S and DON'T'S to safely and peacefully coexist with the coyote.
..DO'S
• Consider making your dog or cat an indoor pet when living in an area that is known to be
occupied by coyotes.
• Accompany your dog in well lighted areas at night for comfort walks.
• Keep your dog on a leash whenever you take it off your own property.
• Keep all outdoor trash can lids securely fastened to the trash can receptacle.
• Improve yard fencing to coyote resistant standards.
• Pick fruit when it ripens, and don't leave rotting fruit on the ground.
• Eliminate ivy and other thick ground covers which may attract rats, which can attract coyotes.
DONT'S
• Don't feed wild animals.
• Don't leave pet food and water outdoors, especially at night
• Don't allow pets to roam from home unaccompanied.
• Don't leave garbage containers open
• Don't leave water in birdbaths, or birdseed outdoors for songbirds.
• Don't attempt to contact or "tame" coyotes
Other Important Reminders
As with many wild animals, the coyote, if left alone, will regulate its own numbers. If coyotes in a
certain area are removed, the remaining individuals will fill the area, either with larger litters, or by
allowing outsider coyotes to move into an area. For this reason, trapping or other forms of
abatement normally have no long term impact.
Flashing lights, tape recorded human noises, scattered moth balls, and ammonia soaked rags
strategically placed may deter coyotes from entering an area.
Coyotes and other predatory animals are "opportunistic" hunters. While the coyotes natural diet
may be small rodents and fruit, they will not hesitate to prey on small domestic animals, or human
refuse, if the opportunity exists. Consequently if you live in an area within the range of coyotes, it
is your responsibility to afford protection to your domestic animals and to store your trash in a
sound and secure manner.
Although rare, coyote attacks have seriously injured young children. Never leave small children
unattended in areas known to be frequented by coyotes, even in your yard.
Homeowners will also be expected to have made a good faith effort to implement the
procedures outlined in "Co-existing With the Coyote" before any consideration for trapping
is given. Trapped animals will be destroyed.
URBAN WILDLIFE INFORMATIONAL NETWORK
Little Blue Society • City of San Jose Animal Services • City of San Jose Animal Advisory Commission - Wildlife Center
of Silicon Valley Santa County of Santa Clara Animal Advisory Commission • San Mateo County Parks and
Recreation Division • San Mateo County Fish and Wildlife Advisory Committee • California Department of Fish and
Game • Mid-Peninsula Regional Open Space District • City of Walnut Creek Open Space • Peninsula Humane Society
• USDA Wildlife Services • City of Belmont Police Department • World Ethics Forum Switzerland • City of San Ramon .
Town of Portola Valley Conservation Committee • City of San Ramon • City of Scotts Valley - Audubon Society
Humane Society of the United States .
c r e a t e d & s p o n s o r e d b y L i t t l e B l u e S o c i e t y
URBAN WILDLIFE INFORMATIONAL NETWORK
u N
WHAT YOU CAN DO
TO SAFELY AND PEACEFULLY
CO-EXIST WITH THE COYOTE
"As we all know too well, people are opportunistic. If you own a business, do you
leave the doors unlocked when you leave at night? No, because somebody is likely to
take advantage of the situation by going in and stealing your money or merchandise.
Animals are opportunistic too. Deer will be drawn to the tastiest plants within easy
reach, (usually your prized flowers), dogs will paw through available garbage for a
choice morsel. We can't blame them, we'll take the easy way over the hard way any day
too.
The problem arises however, when animals see opportunities we don't recognize
and then we get angry at them for being so clever in taking advantage of us. What we
need to do is heighten our awareness of the situations where this might occur.
Unfortunately animals that have lost their wariness and have more contact with
humans also tend to have shorter life spans. That is because these tend to be our problem
critters, and are frequently killed.
How can we keep our wild creatures wild? Probably the most effective method is
to remove any opportunities around our property that are particularly attractive and easy
for them to take advantage of."
Susan Hossner D.V.M.
By following these common sense guidelines, you can greatly decrease the chances
that the coyote which passes through your neighborhood will consider your place a
convenient "fast food joint."
Once the source of attraction is removed or modified, it is likely that the coyote will no
longer return to the area, only on passing through while ranging or foraging.
A FED COYOTE IS A DEAD COYOTE
Are you or anyone in your neighborhood feeding coyotes? If you know of someone who is,
please share this informational package with them! Or contact our office, and we will forward
the information to them.
We understand that sometimes people misguidedly believe they are being kind to the coyote
by feeding it. But a coyote that becomes dependent on humans for food may become too bold
and lose its natural fear of people. It may even bite someone and have to be destroyed.
Coyotes are quite capable of surviving without our help! Please help them live longer by
keeping them wild. DO NOT FEED wildlife. You can enjoy them safely from a distance.
r
* KEEP PETS UNDER YOUR CONTROL
When coyotes see a small unattended animal, it is natural for them to regard it as food. It is
your responsibility to provide fundamental protection for your pet. Your companion animal
depends on you for its quality of life.
It is tragic for any companion animal to be killed. Therefore, we encourage you to prevent the
tragedy before it happens by practicing responsible pet guardianship.
'Consider making your cat or small dog an indoor animal.
**Do not leave your pets unattended outdoors unless a safe place for them to exercise
can be provided, such as an enclosed cat or dog run.
**Pets, even large dogs should be brought indoors at night, and not allowed to roam
free.
**Always walk your pets on a leash, if in the evening, make sure you stay in well lit
areas.
If cats cannot be contained indoors and predation is viewed as a problem, posts can be
installed in your yard which provide escape for the cats. These posts should be at least 7 ft.
tall, made of a material the cats can climb, and have enough space on top for the cats to sit.
ilit KEEP DOMESTIC ANIMALS IN SAFE ENCLOSURE
When building a chicken coop or shelter for rabbits, dig a 1 ft. trench around its perimeter.
Extend the wire fence well into the trench then bury it. Make sure the pen is covered with a
roof and constructed with heavy wire mesh. Coyotes can break through ordinary chicken
wire.
**Make sure that rabbit hutches that stand above the ground have a solid bottom. Wire
bottoms make the rabbit an easy mark.
**In certain instances the confinement areas can be lit at night.
For commercial ranching operations
In instances where sheep are present, a lambing shed should be built to shelter ne
animals. Nonlethal chemical repellents can be used such as rags soaked with amrr
keep coyotes away from the area.
The most cost effective method of non-lethal prevention of livestock predation is the use of
specially raised and trained guard dogs. They have been used with great success.
For more information on the availability of this program, contact:
Little Blue Society @ (650)365-8623.
MAKE SURE YOUR GARBAGE IS HANDLED PROPERLY
**Keep garbage inside a building or in heavy duty, non-tippable, tightly covered garbage
container that keeps odors locked in.
**Garbage containers can be put out in the morning before pick-up, rather than left
sitting outside over-night.
**Leftover table scraps should be buried 6 -12 inches deep in your compost pile, so the
odor does not attract coyotes and other wildlife.
**Ideally, your compost pile should be contained in a shed-like enclosure that can be
closed off to easy access.
Good housekeeping measures are a good start in keeping the coyotes and other opportunists
from visiting your property regularly!
DO NOT LEAVE PET FOOD OUTDOORS
**Feed pets inside or, if you must feed outside, pick up the food bowls when pets are
done eating. The acutely sensitive nose of the coyote can pick up the merest hint of food,
even in a well licked bowl.
**Do not leave any drinking bowls full of water outside.
**Do not feed the birds, fallen seeds will attract small animals which in turn will attract
their predators. Coyotes have also been seen eating bird seed directly out of the feeders!
W MAINTAIN YOUR YARD IN GOOD CONDITION
When planning landscape projects, avoid ornamentals such as ivy, grape ivy, other vines,
prostrate myoporum, or other such plants that produce fruit, or that attract rabbits or rats. The
concentration of small prey could attract coyotes.
**Landscaping should be pruned on a regular basis. Maintain ground covers so that
they are kept low and thin.
**Keep skirts of shrubs and trees near wild land areas and children's play areas pruned
up several feet off the ground..
**Harvest fruit from your trees and always clear the ground of any fallen fruit.
These actions also remove hiding cover used by coyotes to stalk domestic pets.
EXCLUDE THE COYOTE FROM YOUR YARD
Fences should be constructed that are at least 5 1 /2 feet tall with an overhang. These can be
made of solid wood, cement blocks, brick or heavy mesh wire.
**If net wire fencing is used, squares should be smaller than 6 inches.
**All fences should have some sort of galvanized wire apron buried at least 4-6 inches
in the ground which extends out from the fence at least 15 to 20 inches. The apron should be
securely attached to the fence.
Coyotes are adept diggers, and prefer to dig under fences rather than jump them.
„
A!
KEEP CHILDREN SAFE
Although rare, coyote attacks have seriously injured young children. Never leave small
children unattended in areas known to be frequented by coyotes, even in your yard.
URBAN WILDLIFE INFORMATIONAL NETWORK
Little Blue Society • City of San Jose Animal Services • City of San Jose Animal Advisory Commission • Wildlife
Center of Silicon Valley -Santa County of Santa Clara Animal Advisory Commission • San Mateo County Parks
and Recreation Division • San Mateo County Fish and Wildlife Advisory Committee California Department of
Fish and Game • Mid-Peninsula Regional Open Space District • City of Walnut Creek Open Space • Peninsula
Humane Society • USDA Wildlife Services • City of Belmont Police Department • World Ethics Forum Switzerland
• City of San Ramon • Town of Portola Valley Conservation Committee • City of San Ramon • City of Scotts Valley
• Audubon Society • Humane Society of the United States
c r e a t e d & s p o n s o r e d b y L i t t l e B l u e S o c i e t y
_This excerpt from a non-lethal coyote management proposal is included for your information. It discrIti~f krc
efficacy of past and present methods of coyote management. This proposal was presented at the -S - ,
County Coyote Forum in 2000, and the National Interpreter's Association Convention sponsored by tip C ish
and Game Department in 2000.
Proposal: COYOTE VEXING
"Coyote Vexing" is a term and technique created by Little Blue Society in 1999. The
techniques actively modify humanized. behaviour, and instil the fear of humans in
(problematic, and potentially problematic) coyotes. The prescribed techniques are intended
for use by official parks/ wildlife personnel. For more information, please contact :
Mary A. Paglieri at (650)465-7371
Preventative Non - lethal Method to Stem Potential Conflicts between
Coyotes and Humans on the San Francisco Peninsula.
Mary A. Paglieri, Founder/ Director, Little Blue Society. Human.-Animal
Conflict Consultant. Chairperson, Wildlife Subcommittee, San Mateo County
Fish and Wildlife Advisory Committee. Redwood City, California.
Christopher M. Papouchis, Wildlife Biologist/ Specialist, Animal Protection
Institute. Sacramento, California.
DISCUSSION
Traditionally, coyote damage control programs have relied extensively on lethal.
methods like shooting and the use of leg hold traps to remove problem animals and reinstate
the coyotes natural fear of humans (Baker and Timm 1998). Indeed, at least in urban areas,
these methods have been shown to discourage coyotes from frequenting areas where
removals have occurred. However, because lethal methods only treat the symptoms and not
the underlying cause of human/coyote conflicts, they are impractical as a permanent
solution. Moreover, lethal methods can actually exacerbate the situation because coyote
numbers have been shown to increase in response to population control and because
displaced coyotes may push adjacent populations into human habitat. Another consideration
is that the public has expressed a strong distaste for lethal methods, and their continued use
will inevitably prove to be a public relations nightmare for communities. For these reasons,
we suggest that public education and a program of proactive behavior modification of
coyotes will prove to be a more effective, more hurnane and less costly solution to human
coyote interactions.
Studies and observations have shown coyotes to be remarkably adaptable animals that
can alter their behavior in response to changes in their environment. One example of this
ability is the increase in coyote sightings and attacks on humans in urban areas due to the
availability of food and the habituation of some coyotes to humans (Baker and Timm 1998).
Shargo (1988:7) in his study of coyotes in the Los Angeles suburbs, concluded that "Human
activities, in conjunction with a productive natural habitat, have contributed to a plentiful
food supply, which is available year round." Indeed coyote diets in and around urban areas
in southern California contain high amounts of garbage and domestic cat remains (Wirtz
1.982; MacCracken 1982; Shargo 1988). Because of human modifications, urban areas can
contain a richer supply of food than the surrounding natural habitats, allowing carrying
capacities from 10 to 20 times that of undeveloped site,, (Baker and Timrn 1998). Since
coyotes-are density-dependent-and thus will regulate -their own numbers based'on their
habitat, the abundance of food allows urban coyotes to occupy smaller home ranges than
those living in the wild. Shargo (1988) found the town of Malibu, California had coyotes
occupying home ranges of roughly 0.5 1 square mile. Additionally, he observed that the
abundant supply of food reduced competition for food, thereby discouraging territoriality
and allowing overlap of home ranges that resulted in a high population density.
Human activity has also changed the activity patterns of coyotes, suggested by the
increased sightings of coyotes during the daytime hours (Shargo 1988). In the wild, coyotes
are primarily active during dawn and dusk or at night. This behavior has traditionally
allowed them to avoid human contact. However, as coyotes lose their fear of humans, they
may venture out during the daytime as well., increasing the likelihood of conflicts.
Though commonly used, the traditional course of constant population manipulation
through lethal controls actually increases coyote numbers because the removal of adult
leaves more food available for other coyotes, increasing pup survivor ship and opening
habitat for dispersing coyotes from surrounding areas. Studies in Yellowstone National Park
by Dr. Bob Crabtree and Jennifer Sheldon have found that in an unexploited population, only
one or two pups in a six pup litter will live beyond a few months. However, in exploited
populations, most pups will survive to adulthood (see Finkel 1999). For this very reason,
trapping or other forms of abatement normally have no long-term benefits.
A second problem with lethal methods is that while they may temporarily cause
coyotes to avoid the area and humans for several years (Baker and. Timm 1.998) the remaining
coyotes will disperse, increasing their range into other areas. We hypothesize that these
dispersing coyotes may displace other packs living in the adjacent wild lands, forcing them
into the urban fringe, thereby spreading the problem to another area. Additionally, other
coyotes will inevitably move into the area formerly trapped, continuing the cycle.
The most promising solution for a reduction in conflicts between humans and coyotes
appears to be a combination of reducing the attractiveness of urban areas to coyotes and pro
actively modifying coyote behavior to reinstill their natural fear of humans (Baker and Timm
1998). Without addressing the underlying issue of food availability, and as long as the urban
food supply exceeds that of wild lands, coyotes will continue to propagate and migrate into
these areas and conflicts will continue. A reduction in the food supply would be
accompanied by an increase in coyote home range sizes since individuals will have to travel
farther to obtain food, leading to a reduction in overall population density. If a program of
active behavioral modification accompanies the reduction in food availability, conflicts
between coyotes and humans can be reduced and even eliminated.
By their nature, animals seek to avoid destruction by their natural enemies (Young
and Jackson 1951), which in the case of the coyote are mountain lions, wolves and humans.
Unfortunately, because of changing human behaviors, the coyotes natural fear of humans has
been lost in some areas (Baker and Timm 1998). However, this condition need not be
permanent. Coyotes, which have displayed their ability to habituate to humans when not
threatened by them, can also be reconditioned to fear humans. However, long term
reconditioning can only occur if the public is educated to treat coyotes as wild animals and to
remove potential food sources. It is also imperative that reconditioning be implemented
before a coyote becomes overly habituated, otherwise conflicts may be unavoidable. Since
behavioral traits are influenced by parental training, offspring of a coyote which fears people
YOU ARE F-UTERING
COYOTE
COOt4TRY `R
O_P-E_ISf -_P A R K C_A-M P
WI LZ VI SMI NG, PLEASE b0 7ffE FOLLOWING:
AVOID SUDDEN ENCOUNTERS
• Stay on Trail
• Be alert while hiking
• Enter during posted hours only
GIVE COYOTES THEIR SPACE
IF YOU SEE A COYOTE
• Do not advance toward it
• Calmly leave the area
IF APPROACHED
• Do not turn your back, do not run
• Keep a safe distance
• Coyotes can be unpredictable
• Leash your pet
NEVER FEED WILDLIFE
• Feeding is prohibited by most
ordinances
• Make loud noises, stand tall
• Toss an object at it
• Keep yourself between the animal
and small children
• Contact your local Park Ranger
CALL 911 IF INJURED
• Keep wildlife wild • Always report attacks