Martin Feinberg, Realtor, was interested to learn that multiple coyote sightings have been reported in Culver City in the last few weeks.  Coyotes have been sighted in the areas around Syd Kronenthal Park, Culver Crest and Lindberg Park neighborhoods.

It is not unusual to see coyotes in urban spaces such as the Culver City Real Estate area, especially those neighborhoods and parks that border undeveloped regions.  According to Project Coyote, a national non-profit organization based in Northern California, coexistence between people and wildlife is very possible.

Project Coyote’s mission is to promote compassionate conservation and coexistence between people and wildlife through education, science and advocacy. They offer up a few tips for coexistence with coyotes:

• Never let a dog chase or play with a coyote
• In areas where coyotes have been seen, keep your dog closer to you than usual, and under full control (via leash, etc.) at all times
• Be aware of what is happening around you and your dog at all times
• To protect small dogs in coyote areas, avoid using flexi-leashes, avoid walking near bushy areas or “edge zones,” stand or walk with other people and/or larger dogs, and avoid walking small dogs at dawn.

Culver City Animal Services also suggests adopting certain behaviors when in wildlife habitat such as: “keeping all pets, including dogs and cats, indoors at night; not leaving small pets or children unattended outdoors; removing pet food and water bowls when your pet has finished eating; pick up all fallen fruit or ripened fruit on branches in your yard; enclosing or removing wood piles; secure crawl spaces; clean all grill or barbecues after use; and more.”

Martin Feinberg, local listing agent, also notes that it is important to remember not to turn and run should you see a coyote.  Running can trigger the coyote’s chase instinct, and they can sprint up to 40 mph. Also, never let a coyote go by without attempting to scare it by make yourself appear larger (by raising your arms and waving them), waving a jacket or belt, and yelling in a loud low tone. You can also stomp your foot and clap your hands to scare coyotes.

The Culver City Police Department has asked residents to report coyote sightings and other wildlife issues to (310) 253-6143 or animal.services@culvercity.org. For a complete list of coyote tips from the Culver City Police Department, click here.