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This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.
Coyote sightings cause concern in Culver City
The Culver City Police Department is holding a community workshop Thursday night in the wake of concerns from the public over coyotes in the area. They're partnering with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to help the public deal with coyotes.
Concerns arose in recent months, leading the Culver City police to start tracking cases involving coyotes, Culver City Lt. Sam Agaiby told KPCC. Most of that arose from an incident in which a coyote killed a dog in a neighbor's backyard last fall. There have also been numerous recent sightings of coyotes around the neighborhood. No humans have been bitten by the coyotes.
Two key things to keep in mind to help avoid coyotes, according to Lt. Agaiby:
- Don't leave pet food outside. Coyotes are coming out of wilderness areas into areas with more people seeking food and water, and food left for pets can attract them.
- Don't let them get used to humans. When people get too close, sometimes to feed or take a picture of a coyote because they think it's cute, it can serve to acclimate the animals to humans, Agaiby said. That makes them more comfortable returning.
Coyotes were spotted around Syd Kronenthal Park, Culver Crest and the Lindberg Park neighborhoods in November, according to the Culver City Observer. Culver City Animal Services warned at the time that cats should be kept inside at all times, and that dogs should be supervised while being walked.
"They are smart, fast, and will take what they can get," the alert said.
The meeting is a follow-up to an informational meeting held a couple months ago, Agaiby said. It will going to be held at the El Rincon Elementary School cafeteria at 7 p.m Thursday.
Coyote sightings in Culver City can be reported by calling (310) 253-6143 or emailing animal.services@culvercity.org.
Read the full alert previously issued by Animal Services below, which includes more advice on protecting yourself from coyotes, what to do if you see a coyote and more information on the animals.