Two Packs of Coyotes Target Local Pets: One for Cats, One for Dogs
A county official said at a neighborhood meeting on Tuesday that different coyote packs follow different kinds of prey
By Justin Chapman, Altadena Patch, 8/10/2011
An expert tells concerned citizens that the rash of pet attacks by wild coyotes recently can be explained by two separate packs of animals: One that prefers cats, one that prefers dogs.Ellen Walton, an Altadena resident, has been paying attention to local coyote packs and taken note of the preferential behavior by the two packs.
Walton, who works for the county's Agricultural Commissioner and Weights and Measures, spoke briefly at the about the that Altadena has been experiencing lately.
She said she has been following several packs that actually roam certain neighborhoods to hunt for "preferential feeding." One pack only looks for cats, while another only dogs.
Lost Pets
recently, and in a recent article we discussed the available to pet owners.
Walton gave tips Tuesday on how to protect pets, such as bringing in feeding bowls and fallen fruit from trees at night, as well as securing doggy doors at night. For more tips on coyote prevention, visit the agency's website for more information on this growing problem, or call the local office dealing specifically with coyote threats at 626-575-5462.
The Department of Fish and Game offers the following advice on coyote prevention:
- Put garbage in tightly closed containers that cannot be tipped over.
- Remove sources of water, especially in dry climates.
- Bring pets in at night, and do not leave pet food outside.
- Put away bird feeders at night to avoid attracting rodents and other coyote prey.
- Provide secure enclosures for rabbits, poultry, etc.
- Pick up fallen fruit and cover compost piles.
- Ask your neighbors to follow these tips.
