Urban Coyotes

Many people enjoy observing wildlife in its natural environment. However, coyotes have been seen in Seal Beach near the “Hill” area and the College Parks. They ‘commute’ using the flood controls and drainage ditches throughout the City.

Residents should take precautions to avoid creating potential problems.

• Precautions:
• Feed pets indoors or promptly remove dishes when pets complete their meals outdoors. Store bags of pet food indoors.
• Use trash barrels fitted with pipe clamping devices on the lids to prevent spills.
• Remove fallen fruit – particularly avocados, from yards and orchards. Fallen fruit will attract other food ‘sources’ for coyotes.
• Clear brush and dense weeds around your property. This deprives shelter to rodents and reduces protective cover for coyotes.
• Keep small animals indoors as much as possible, especially at night.
• Do not feed or provide water to coyotes or other wildlife.
• Do not use plastic bags as garbage containers. Coyotes will rummage through them looking for food.
• Do not put trash cans out the night before the scheduled pick up. Put them out in the morning. Coyotes are intelligent and learn to knock them over to access the contents.

Coyotes visit at nighttime and during the day. They display no fear in the presence of people. Please be very cautious when leaving animals and small children unattended outdoors. Coyotes can jump up to 14 feet and wrought iron or chain link fence does not deter them.

For complaints or any questions regarding coyotes, please call the Long Beach Bureau of Animal Control at (562) 570-7387 or the Seal Beach Police Department at (562) 799-4100.