{Canis latrans}

Coyotes are sly, intelligent and very adaptable animals. Despite attempts to regulate their numbers throughout the United States, coyote populations have continued to increase.

Appearance
Coyotes look similar to small German Shepherds in size and shape. They have a long, slender muzzle with large, erect ears. Their tail is round and bushy.

Behavior
Primarily nocturnal, coyotes are omnivorous and enjoy a diet of small mammals, fish, reptiles, fruits and vegetables. Coyotes are attracted to urban neighborhoods because of the abundant food sources such as garbage cans, pet food, birdseed and outdoor pets. Because coyotes may breed with domestic dogs, be sure to spay or neuter your pet.

Deterrents
- Make your trash can inaccessible. Keep lids securely fastened and in your garage until trash day. Ammonia or pepper in the trash may also discourage the scavenging coyote.

- Do not keep pet food outdoors. Coyotes are scavengers ad on a slow day a dish of dog or cat food really hits the spot and keeps them coming back for more.

- Coyotes rarely climb anything higher than a six foot fence. Augment your existing fence with outwardly inverted fencing, hot wire, or cement blocks and large rocks buried outside the fence line to prevent animals from digging into your yard.

- Some deterrents that may keep coyotes from entering your property may include; battery operated flashing lights, tape-recorded humane noises, scattered moth balls and ammonia soaked rags strategically placed.

Please note that unless there is an immediate threat to human life, the Inland Valley Humane Society & S.P.C.A. will not trap, relocate, or kill coyotes. In the event that a coyote poses a threat, the Department of Fish & Game will be contacted.

 Click here to download this individual page.