Coyote Watch

Coyote sightings continue to blow up Leisure World’s Facebook and NextDoor pages, with coyotes spotted in almost every Mutual and in the flood channel along Golden Rain Road.

Residents are urged to be cautious and keep pets close by.

There have been no reports of threatening coyote behavior in LW.

Loud noises will scare off the animals, which are typically frightened of humans and run from conflict.

The best way to repel coyotes, which are common in the area this time of year, is to practice hazing, which tends to move them on to more hospitable locales, according to animal control.

Hazing techniques include:

•Yell and wave your arms while approaching a coyote.

•Use noisemakers such as whistles, air horns, bells or soda cans filled with pennies to scare the coyote.

•Throw sticks, small rocks, cans, tennis balls or rubber balls at the coyote.

•Use hoses, water guns or spray bottles.

Animal control experts recommend that residents follow these precautions to keep the coyotes away from neighborhoods:

•Close the lids of community garbage containers after trash is placed inside. This will eliminate a food source for the animal.

•Protect pets and do not leave any pet food or water in patio areas.

•Put away bird feeders at night to avoid attracting rodents and other coyote prey.

•Be aware of surroundings while walking dogs, especially in the evening and early morning hours.

•Don’t leave doors or windows open, and make sure vents are screened so there is no access to apartments.

Never approach a sick, injured or cornered coyote.

Animal control will only respond if the coyote is sick or injured or if it is threatening or attacking a person.

For more information from Seal Beach’s contracted provider, contact the Long Beach Animal Care Services, at (562) 570-7387.

It is a violation of state law to feed wildlife because it alters their natural behaviors.