Keeping the family safe from coyotes

Encounters with coyotes could become dangerous when people begin feeding the wild animals. Whether fed deliberately or inadvertently, coyotes quickly lose their natural fear of people and can become aggressive.

While the County of Ventura Department of Animal Regulation does not trap or remove coyotes, they will assist local law enforcement if a coyote becomes a danger to human safety.

If a coyote acts aggressively or attacks people, call 911. Residents may also call the County Animal Regulation at (805) 3884341 if a coyote is posing an immediate threat to public safety or is seriously injured.

To protect pets and reduce potential conflicts with coyotes, residents should follow these guidelines.

•Never feed a coyote. Deliberately feeding coyotes puts pets and other neighborhood residents at risk. People can inadvertently feed coyotes by leaving pet food or garbage where they can get to it. Feed pets indoors or promptly remove outdoor dishes, bring bird feeders in at night, store bags of pet food indoors and use trashcans with lids that shut tightly.

•Clear brush and dense woods from around dwellings. Reduce protective cover for coyotes and make the area less attractive to rodents. Coyotes and other predators are attracted to areas where rodents are concentrated, such as woodpiles and seed storage areas.

•Protect children. Never leave children unattended in areas frequented by coyotes.

•Protect pets and livestock. Keep small pets indoors, especially at night, as they are easy prey for coyotes.

•Use negative reinforcement. If coyotes are present, make loud noises, throw rocks or spray them with a garden hose.

For more information, go to www.countyofventura.org/ animalreg/coyote.