The Huntington Beach Police Department is warning residents to take caution because the peak coyote breeding season has arrived.
The coyote mating season typically occurs from late January to March, and the peak of their season is in February.
The department says that during this time, adult coyotes will travel long distances in search of mates and food sources.
Especially in this time of year, it is important that you protect your pets by keeping them inside, and supervising them while they are outside.
If a person encounters a coyote, it is usually best to haze the animal. Depending on their behavior, start by standing your ground, and don’t turn your back on the animal. Then yell or make loud noises that can startle it. If the coyote appears to be aggressive, you may want to throw objects or spray it with a garden hose.
The city’s guide to coyotes says, “A common concern with hazing involves potential danger to the hazer. Coyotes are instinctually skittish, which makes hazing useful. It is important that the hazer provides the coyote a clear escape route free to flee and not corner the animal; a cornered animal may decide that attacking the hazer is the only option.”
To help you prepare for the season, the police department says:
- Cut back vegetation that may be creating hiding places and shelters.
- Quickly harvest ripe/fallen fruit and vegetables.
- Pick up trash/litter and keep trash cans closed.
- Keep garbage cans inside a garage or secure building until pickup day.
Be safe, stay alert, and watch out for the coyotes!
