Living With Coyotes and Other Critters

As spring approaches and temperatures rise, it's not just wildflowers that will emerge, but also a variety of animals, including coyotes, raccoons, and insects. While these creatures can be exciting to observe, they can also be unnerving for those living in areas where they roam. However, with proper knowledge and precautions, it is possible to live safely and smartly with these animals.

Coyotes are native to California and can be found throughout Los Angeles County. While they are adaptable and abundant, they have a bad reputation for snatching people's pets. It's important to understand their habits and behaviors to know how to deal with them safely. For instance, during their mating season, which is between March and May, coyote pups may be born. To help residents coexist with coyotes, LA Explained reporter Caitlin Hernández has provided a comprehensive breakdown of coyote behavior, while LAist's Ryanne Mena offers dos and don'ts for warding off these animals, such as building fences.

Raccoons are another animal that can be both cute and aggressive, and they can pose a threat to yards. Ryanne's guide for dealing with nature's peskiest critters offers tips such as using Raccoon Eviction Fluid to deter raccoons.

In addition to coyotes and raccoons, other creatures to watch out for include mosquitoes, cockroaches, and spiders. Ryanne's guide also provides solutions for dealing with these insects. However, it's important to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, such as wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants and using mosquito repellent.

Living among wildlife can be challenging, but it's possible to coexist safely with these creatures. Understanding their habits and behaviors, taking preventative measures, and following safety guidelines will ensure that you and your pets can live harmoniously with wildlife.

Here are some tips for living among coyotes and other creatures:

1. Know your neighbors: Get to know the wildlife in your area, including their behaviors and habitats. This can help you understand how to avoid them and what to do if you encounter them.
2. Secure your trash: Coyotes and other creatures are attracted to garbage and food scraps. Ensure that your trash cans are secure, and don't leave pet food or other food outside overnight.
3. Keep your pets indoors: Coyotes see cats and small dogs as prey, and larger dogs as a threat. Keep your pets indoors, especially at night. If you must take your pet outside, always supervise them and keep them on a leash.
4. Secure your property: Make sure your property is well-lit and free of any potential hiding spots, such as overgrown bushes or piles of debris. Consider installing motion-activated lights or a fence to deter wildlife from entering your property.
5. Use scare tactics: Coyotes and other creatures can be scared off by loud noises or bright lights. Consider using motion-activated sprinklers, noise-making devices, or even a whistle to scare them away.
6. Educate your community: Encourage your neighbors to take the same precautions to protect themselves and their pets. You can also contact your local wildlife agency for more information on living with wildlife in your area.
7. Don't feed wildlife: Feeding wildlife, even unintentionally, can encourage them to come closer to your property and become dependent on human food. This can be dangerous for both humans and wildlife.

In conclusion, while living among coyotes and other creatures can be a unique experience, it's important to take precautions to ensure everyone's safety. By knowing your neighbors, securing your property, and using scare tactics, you can coexist with these creatures and enjoy the beauty of wildlife in your community.

LAist contributed to this article