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CC - Item 6B - Coyote Management PlanROSEMEAD CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT FROM: BILL R. MANIS, CITY MANAGER DQM DATE: NOVEMBER 8, 2016 SUBJECT: COYOTE MANAGEMENT PLAN SUMMARY In recent years, the City, along with other municipalities, began to experience an increase in the amount of coyote encounters. These encounters include attacks on pets and an increase in the number of sightings in areas populated by people. These encounters have caused a general sense of fear by the community and a desire by the City Council to develop a plan to help manage coyote activity. The proposed Plan includes several aspects to mitigate coyote interaction, with the ultimate goal of co- existing with coyotes. The success of the proposed plan will be based on proactive education, coordination and active participation by the public. In the future, the plan may require adjustments given several aspects, such as the adaptability of coyotes, new regulations, or environmental changes. The understanding of coyote behavior and management is evolving as wildlife experts continue to study the coyote in suburban environments. The City will need to be flexible and re- evaluate its strategy as necessary when new information and techniques become available. The proposed Coyote Management Plan provides guidance to residents, businesses and City staff in managing coyotes in Rosemead, as our local guidelines and provisions must fall within the parameters of, and adhere to federal, state and county regulations and policies. Provisions of this plan maintain the legal rights of Rosemead residents, businesses, and/or homeowners' associations in protecting private property relative to coyote management practices. The Plans strategy for managing coyotes is based on balancing respect for, and protection of wildlife and their habitats, while prioritizing public safety. This strategy is comprised of a three - pronged approach consisting of the following: 1. Public education designed around co- existence with coyotes; 2. Enforcement of laws and regulations; and 3. Ensuring public safety by implementing appropriate responses to coyote behavior. ITEM NUMBER: City Council Meeting November 8, 2016 Page 2 of 3 This plan requires active participation on the part of the entire community including residents, businesses, homeowners' associations, volunteers and City personnel. Education is key to residents making appropriate decisions regarding their safety, and that of their property and pets, by decreasing attractants, reshaping coyote behavior through hazing, and creating reasonable expectations of normal coyote behavior. Dissemination of information to residents, businesses and schools will be accomplished through the use of the City website, mailers, handouts, workshops, etc. Enforcement will also be an important aspect of the plan. The act of feeding wildlife substantially increases the likelihood of coyote activity in an area, thereby creating a habituated coyote(s) presence resulting in increased coyote and human interactions. California law(s) prohibits feeding wildlife, and the City enforce these applicable state statutes. A response plan has been developed to provide a mechanism for identifying and classifying different levels of coyote aggression. Appendix A of the proposed plan lists the definitions of coyote encounters, while Appendix B charts coyote behavior and recommended responses. In addition, the plan provides detailed information on coyote biology, attractants in urban environments, the role of coyotes in the ecosystem, legal status, human perception, challenges in managing wildlife, monitoring and collection of data, hazing techniques and yard audit checklists, lethal control and trapping, pest management, public education and outreach, and information on the state, county and surrounding communities' activity surrounding coyotes. STAFF RECOMMENDATION That the City Council approve the proposed Coyote Management Plan. FISCAL IMPACT There is no ongoing fiscal impact as a result of approving the proposed Coyote Management Plan. There is an initial cost of approximately $6,125, to prepare and distribute the educational postcards. These postcards are proposed to be in four languages (English, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Spanish) and sent to all residents and business in the City of Rosemead, with additional material available at City Facilities. In addition, an initial 1,000 whistles, at a cost of $1,020 were purchased to use as a hazing tool towards coyotes. These whistles will be available to residents and business at four locations (City Hall, Rosemead Community Recreation Center, Garvey Center, and the Public Safety Center). The total initial cost associated with the proposed plan is $7,145. STRATEGIC PLAN IMPACT This item addresses the Strategic Plan Organizational goal of Enhancing Public Safety and Quality of Life. City Council Meeting November S, 2016 Page 3 of 3 PUBLIC NOTICE PROCESS This item has been noticed through the regular agenda notification process. Prepared by: 15,: Brad McKinney, Assistant Cit anager Attachment: Coyote Management Plan Attachment Coyote Management Plan Coyote Management Plan City of Rosemead 8838 East Valley Boulevard Rosemead, CA 91770 November 2016 Table of Contents Page Executive Summary 1 Coyote Management Plan Goals and Purpose 2 Coyote Biology 2 Legal Status 4 Coyote Attractants in Urban Environment 4 Human Perception of Coyotes 6 Challenges Managing Wildlife 6 Monitoring and Collection of Data 6 Hazing and Behavioral Change 6 Lethal Control 7 Trapping 8 Animal Pest Management Services 8 Public Education and Outreach 8 State Department 8 Los Angeles County 9 Surrounding Cities 9 Regional Approach 10 Response Plan 10 Appendices A. Definitions of Encounters with Coyotes B. Coyote Behavior and Recommended Response C. Coyote Incident Report Form D. Summary of Trapping Laws and Regulations E. Yard Audit Checklist EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The intent of this plan is to provide guidance for City staff in managing coyotes in Rosemead, as our local guidelines and provisions must fall within the parameters of, and adhere to federal, state and county regulations and policies. Provisions of this plan maintain the legal rights of Rosemead residents, businesses, and/or homeowners' associations in protecting private property relative to coyote management practices. The City's strategy for managing coyotes is based on balancing respect for, and protection of wildlife and their habitats, while prioritizing public safety. This strategy is comprised of a three - pronged approach consisting of the following: 1. Public education designed around co- existence with coyotes; 2. Enforcement of laws and regulations; and 3. Ensuring public safety by implementing appropriate responses to coyote behavior. This plan requires active participation on the part of the entire community including residents, businesses, homeowners' associations, volunteers and City personnel. Education Education is key to residents making appropriate decisions regarding their safety, and that of their property and pets, by decreasing attractants, reshaping coyote behavior through hazing, and creating reasonable expectations of normal coyote behavior. Dissemination of information to residents, businesses and schools will be accomplished through the use of the City website, mailers, handouts, etc. Enforcement The act of feeding wildlife substantially increases the likelihood of coyote activity in an area, thereby creating a habituated coyote(s) presence resulting in increased coyote and human interactions. California law(s) prohibits feeding wildlife, and the City enforce these applicable state statutes. Response Plan A response plan has been developed to provide a mechanism for identifying and classifying different levels of coyote aggression. Appendix A lists the definitions of coyote encounters, while Appendix B charts coyote behavior and recommended responses. COYOTE MANAGEMENT PLAN GOALS AND PURPOSE The goal of the Coyote Management Plan is to provide a program to coexist and reduce human- coyote conflicts while prioritizing human safety. The suggested actions outlined in this plan are designed to increase citizens' knowledge and understanding of how coyotes behave and make clear how such behavior can be managed to reduce conflicts with coyotes. in urban settings, and the best known management practices and management tools. This plan is guided by the following basic principles: 1. Human safety is a priority in managing human- coyote interactions. 2. Coyotes serve an important role in ecosystems by helping to control the population of rodents, Canada geese, rabbits and other urban mammals. 3. Preventive practices such as reduction and removal of food attractants, habitat modification and responding appropriately when interacting with wildlife are key to minimi potential interactions with coyotes. 4. Solutions for coyote conflicts must address both problematic coyote behaviors (such as aggression towards people and attacks on pets) and the problematic human behaviors (intentionally or unintentionally feeding coyotes and letting pets outside unattended) that contribute to conflicts. 5. Non - selective coyote removal programs are ineffective for reducing coyote population sizes or preventing human- coyote conflicts. 6. A community -wide program that involves residents is necessary for achieving coexistence among people, coyotes and pets. COYOTE BIOLOGY Most coyotes weigh approximately 25 -35 pounds, although their long legs and thick fur make them appear larger. Coyote fur varies in color from gray -brown to yellow -gray. They have a black - tipped tail which helps to distinguish them from other canids, such as foxes. Coyotes also have yellow /amber eyes (which help to distinguish them from domestic dogs), large ears and narrow, pointed muzzles (which help to distinguish them from wolves). Since coyotes are naturally very skittish and afraid of humans, they are rarely seen. Thus, their signs (including prints, scat and vocalizations) may be a better indicator of their presence. Coyote prints are similar to those of a domestic dog's, but are usually observed in a straight line (as opposed to the meandering path of domestic dog tracks). More commonly, coyote howling or other vocalizations may be heard. Coyotes produce a variety of sounds (including howls, barks, whines and yips) to communicate with one another and defend their territory. Small groups of coyotes (2- 3) can distort their voices and sound like a group of 20. Coyotes also use scat (feces) to communicate by depositing it in the middle of a trail or on the edge of their territory. Coyote scat is similar to dog scat in size and appearance, but unlike dog scat, it is rope -like and typically filled with hairs, seeds and bones. Diet: Coyotes are opportunistic omnivores with great flexibility in their diet. They generally hunt small mammals such as mice, rats, voles, rabbits and prairie dogs, but will also eat fruit and berries and will even scavenge road - killed animals. In urban areas, coyotes are also known to eat pet food, unsecured garbage and compost. They may also prey on unattended domestic pets, such as cats and small dogs if given the opportunity. This does not indicate a danger to humans, but is rather a natural coyote behavior. This behavior can be prevented by reducing human- associated food attractants in urban areas and not letting pets outside Social Structure: Most coyotes (called resident coyotes) live in family groups with one breeding pair and 3 -4 other related individuals. Coyotes do not hunt in packs, but work together to defend their territory from other coyote family groups. Other coyotes (called transient coyotes) live alone or as an isolated mated pair. Coyotes mate once per year, during their breeding season (which occurs from January through March). During the pup season (April — August), the breeding pair will give birth to pups (typically in April or May). Litter size depends on available resources and the number of coyotes in the area. The average litter size is four to seven pups. Coyotes will place their pups in a den for the first six weeks, after which the pups will learn to hunt with their parents. Coyote dens are found in steep banks, rock crevices and underbrush, as well as in open areas. During dispersal season (September — December), the pups from the previous year (yearlings) will leave the family group and become transient coyotes in search of a new home range. Habitat: Coyotes are naturally diurnal (most active at dawn and dusk), but often shift to more nocturnal activity in urban and suburban areas in an effort to avoid people. Coyotes prefer open space and natural preserve areas over human- dominated landscapes, but are extremely adept at living in proximity to people. Coyotes thrive in these areas because food, water, and shelter are abundant. Home range sizes vary for each individual coyote. Research has shown that home range sizes for resident coyotes average 2 -5 square miles, while transient coyotes have larger home ranges (averaging 10 square miles). Home range size can be an important indicator of resource distribution and abundance and also may correlate with population density. ROLE OF COYOTES IN ECOSYSTEM Coyotes play in important role in our ecosystem. As a top predator, coyotes feed on squirrels, mice, rats, lizards and other rodents that are wildly regarded as pests. Coyotes also feed on "mesopredators" such as opossums and raccoons, which in the absence of coyotes could multiply in number and ravage the nests of wild birds, eating an abundance of eggs and doing serious damage to wild bird populations. Coyotes are curious, smart and adaptable creatures. Our urban areas provide the perfect balance of food, shelter and water for them to live. What you may not know is that even in fragmented and urbanized landscapes, coyotes can play an integral role in their environment by providing ecosystem services and helping to maintain species diversity. Coyotes in urban areas not only provide free rodent control by feeding on mice and rats, but also help to regulate the population size of other species that may cause conflicts with people in urban areas (such as voles, wild turkeys, white- tailed deer and Canada geese). LEGAL STATUS Coyotes have no special protection in California and may be killed by any method that is not prohibited by federal, state, or local statutes. Since the passage of a state ballot initiative measure in November 1998, leg hold traps cannot be used to capture coyotes except in situations where a human health and safety emergency- has- been - declared by- designated - officials, or -in- selected -- - situations where the existence of an endangered species is threatened by predation. Toxicants or poisons used to control coyotes are illegal, with the exception of fumigant cartridges available only to predator control specialists to asphyxiate coyote pups in their dens. No chemical repellents are registered for use in repelling coyotes from property or from livestock. are drawn to urban and suburban areas for the following reasons: 1. Food. Urban areas provide a bounty of natural food choices for coyotes, who primarily eat rodents such as mice and rats. However, coyotes can be further attracted into suburban neighborhoods by human- associated food such as pet food, unsecured compost or trash, and fallen fruit in yards. Intentional and unintentional feeding can lead coyotes to associate humans with sources of food, which can result in negative interactions among coyotes, people and pets. To reduce food attractants in urban and suburban areas: a. Never hand -feed or otherwise deliberately feed a coyote. b, Avoid feeding pets outside. Remove sources of pet food and water. If feeding pets outside is necessary, remove the bowl and any leftover food promptly. c. Never compost any meat or dairy (unless the compost is fully secured). 2. Water. Urban areas provide a year -round supply of water in the form of storm water impoundments and channels, artificial lakes, irrigation, pet water dishes, etc., which support both coyotes and their prey. In dry conditions, water can be as alluring as food, so remove water bowls set outside for pets and make watering cans unavailable. 3. Access to shelter. Parks, greenbelts, open spaces, golf courses, buildings, sheds, decks and crawl spaces, etc., increase the amount and variability of cover for coyotes. They allow coyotes to safely and easily remain close to people, pets, homes and businesses without detection. In the spring, when coyotes give birth and begin to raise young, they concentrate their activities around dens or burrows in which their young are sheltered. Coyotes may take advantage of available spaces under sheds or decks for use as a den, bringing them into close contact with people and pets. a. Maintain good housekeeping, such as regularly raking areas around bird feeders, to help discourage coyote activity near residences. b. Remove fallen fruit from the ground. c. Keep trash in high- quality containers with tight -fitting lids. Only place the cans curbside the morning of collection. If you leave trash cans out overnight, they are more likely to be tipped over and broken into. d. Bag especially attractive food wastes such as meat scraps or leftover pet food. If it is several days before garbage will be picked up, freeze temporarily or take to a dumpster or other secure storage container. 4. Unattended Pets. Pets are a normal part of an urban landscape. Within their territory, coyotes may consider pets as potential prey or potential competitors. a. Free - roaming pets especially cats and sometimes small dogs, may attract coyotes into neighborhoods. The best way to minimi risk to pets is to not leave them outside unattended. b. Cats. Coyotes primarily eat small mammals such as mice and rats, but will also prey on slightly larger mammals such as rabbits and groundhogs. Approximately the same size as a groundhog or rabbit, free - roaming outdoor cats may also be seen as eligible prey items by coyotes. It is important to note that attacks on cats are normal coyote behavior and do not indicate a danger for people. The only way to protect cats from coyotes (and the other dangers of outdoor life such as cars, disease, dogs and other wildlife) is to keep cats indoors (or only let them outside in a secure enclosure or when accompanied by a person and under the control of a leash and harness). c. Feral cats. People who feed feral cats are often concerned that coyotes might prey on the cats. These concerns are well founded, as coyotes will be attracted to both the outdoor pet food and the cats themselves as prey. Although there is no sure way to protect feral cats from coyotes, the following tips can be helpful: i. Feed cats only during the day and at a set time —and pick up any leftovers immediately. ii. Provide escape routes for cats. iii. Haze coyotes seen on the property (see Appendix B). Making them feel uncomfortable will encourage them to stay out of the area, d. Dogs are also vulnerable to coyote confrontations. These incidents generally involve coyotes who are accustomed or habituated to people (usually due to wildlife feeding), or coyotes who are protecting their territory and pups (usually during breeding season). i. Small, unattended dogs may be seen as potential prey for coyotes. It is important to either keep dogs on a leash six feet long or shorter when outdoors or to stay within six feet of them when outside. (Coyotes may view a dog on a leash longer than six feet as an unattended pet.) Attacks on unattended, small dogs are normal coyote behavior and do not indicate a danger for people. ii. Although attacks on larger dogs are rarer, coyotes will sometimes go after a large dog when they feel that their territory is threatened. This generally occurs during the coyote breeding season, which takes place from January through March. During this time, it is especially important not to let dogs outside unattended and to keep them on leashes (six feet long or less) when in public areas. iii. Fences can be used to keep coyotes out of residential yards, but they must be "coyote- proof." Coyote -proof fences are at least eight feet tall and made of a material that coyotes cannot climb or at least six feet tall with a E protective device on top such as a "coyote roller (coyoteroller.com) that rolls off any coyotes (and dogs) that try to scramble over the fence. To prevent coyotes from digging under a fence, it should extend underground at least twelve inches or include an L- shaped mesh apron that extends outward at least 18 inches and is secured with landscape staples. HUMAN PERCEPTION OF COYOTES j Coyotes are regarded in various ways by different members of the community. Opinions about -- coyotes range from wonder and amusement to indifference to fear and as some result perceptions can become exaggerated or misconstrued based on the observers pre- existing bias towards coyotes. CHALLENGES MANAGING WILDLIFE Due to their intelligence and adaptability, in addition to extensive urbanization and the subsequent decline of larger predators, coyotes have successfully expanded their range across North America. Coyotes are now found in all states in the U.S. except Hawaii and have become well established in nearly every ecosystem. They live in deserts, swamps, tundra and grasslands, brush, dense forests, cities and suburbs. People can live among coyotes yet never see them. Often it's only an evening chorus or group howling and yipping that alerts us to the presence of this wild canid in our neighborhoods. It is important to keep in mind that coyotes have been interacting with and adapting to people for at least the last 100 years. MONITORING AND COLLECTION OF DATA Monitoring and data collection are critical components of an effective coyote management plan. Monitoring human- coyote interactions is necessary to document where coyotes are seen, and to keep records of the numbers of coyotes that are in a specific area and to identify potential human- coyote conflict hotspots. A standardized form is available (Exhibit C) for documentation of coyote sightings and interactions. This Coyote Incident Form contains relevant information regarding the encounter with a coyote, as well as pertinent information about the informant. Residents may contact the Public Safety Center when they see a coyote. The Coyote Incident Form will be completed by staff with pertinent information about the coyote with specific information about the incident. HAZING AND BEHAVIORAL CHANGE A hazing program encourages the use of harassing actions without employing weapons or causing bodily harm to a coyote. The more often an individual animal is hazed, the more effective hazing is in changing coyote behavior. Being highly intelligent animals, coyotes who are hazed, quickly learn to avoid neighborhoods, people and pets. The goals of hazing are to: 1. Reverse the habituation of coyotes to people, teaching them to once again fear and avoid humans 2. Discourage coyotes from entering public areas such as parks, playgrounds and yards when people are present 3. Discourage coyotes from approaching people and pets 19 4. Empower residents by giving them tools to use when they encounter a coyote, thereby reducing their fear of coyotes (Whistles) 5. Increase awareness about coyote behavior among residents and involve the community in coyote management efforts (Resident Informational Flyers) LETHAL CONTROL Lethal control programs may seem like a quick fix to problems among coyotes, people and pets. However, removal programs are not effective in reducing coyote populations or addressing the -root causes of conflicts. Coyote removal programs are costly (due to the difficulty of catching coyotes) and controversial among the public. When implementing lethal control, it is extremely difficult to ensure that problem- causing coyote(s) will be the ones located and killed. Since firearms are unsafe to use in urban and suburban areas, traps (which are by design non - selective for particular coyotes) are generally the method used. Because coyotes are so intelligent and wary of human scent, it is very difficult to catch any coyote in a trap. Research has shown that when lethally controlled, coyotes exhibit a "rebound effect" (a surge in their reproductive rates), allowing for quick regeneration of their population numbers. The disruption of their family group structure, leads to an increase in the number of females breeding in the population, and the increase in available resources leads to larger litter sizes, earlier breeding ages among females and higher survival rates among pups. This allows coyote populations to bounce back quickly, even when their numbers are removed through lethal control efforts. For these reasons, lethal programs are not effective at reducing coyote populations, and non - selective coyote trapping programs are not effective at solving conflicts. In addition, coyotes removed from an area will quickly be replaced by transient coyotes looking for a vacant home range. If the root causes of human- coyote conflicts have not been addressed, incoming coyotes may quickly become nuisance coyotes as well. It is far better to have well - behaved resident coyotes who will hold territories and keep transients at bay, then to risk having to deal with newcomers that have not been suspect to hazing strategies or that are not accustomed to the "rules" the community is attempting to set through hazing strategies. Lethal responses (coyote removal) should be considered only in the event of an unprovoked, confirmed attack on a human. If implemented, lethal control efforts should focus on the offending coyote(s) only, rather than the coyote population at large. This requires significant surveillance efforts to make sure that the correct animal(s) is targeted and removed. Lethal control should be considered as only one of a suite of management interventions (e.g. removal of attractants, hazing, etc.) that involve an array of humane and non -lethal measures. If non - lethal control techniques are effective enough to reduce human- coyote interactions and conflicts to acceptable levels, then the lethal control limited option may remain in the toolbox without being used. TRAPPING The trapping of wildlife in the State of California in order to re- locate the animal to another region in order to limit nuisance species is illegal. A summary of the Trapping Laws and Regulations is included in Appendix D. In California, according to the California Department of Fish & Game, Section 465, (G) (1), the law states that animals trapped must be released on site or killed. Below is what the law states. - - "Immediate Dispatch or Release. All furbearing and nongame mammals that are legal to trap must be immediately killed or released. Unless released, trapped animals shall be killed by shooting where local ordinances, landowners, and safety permit. This regulation does not prohibit employees of federal, state, or local government from using chemical euthanasia to dispatch trapped animals." There are many effective methods for trapping coyotes, and success can be enhanced by considering several key points. Coyotes learn from past events that were unpleasant or frightening, and they often avoid such events in the future. In spring and summer, most coyotes limit their movements to a small area, but in late summer, fall, and winter they may roam over a larger area. Coyotes follow regular paths and crossways, and they prefer high hills or knolls from which they can view the terrain. They establish regular scent posts along their paths, and they depend on their eyes, nose, and ears to sense danger. However, all trapping of wildlife is highly regulated and is only permitted with proper licensing. ANIMAL PEST MANAGEMENT SERVICES Many of the cities in the San Gabriel Valley have similar concerns with coyotes and have utilized the services of a professionally licensed trapper. Jim Rizzo of Animal Pest Management Services has assisted many Southern California Cities with trapping and disposing of coyotes from their communities. The service initially costs $3,500 for ten -days of locating, trapping, and euthanizing coyotes. Typical results yield two to three coyotes per session. The company recommends the practice of following up every six months with a subsequent sessions of capturing and removing coyotes, at a cost of $2,500 for the same ten -day period. PUBLIC EDUCATION AND OUTREACH A critical element of a successful coyote management plan includes the education and awareness of the community. Education about coyotes is the key to having residents make appropriate decisions regarding their safety and management of their property and pets. This involves decreasing food sources, taking precautions with pets, creating tolerance of normal coyote behavior, yard upkeep (Appendix E), and hazing strategies. STATE DEAPARTMENT The California Department of Fish and Wildlife does not allow the relocation of wild animals; therefore, the Department does not pick up wild animals unless they are sick or injured and require medical attention. The State Department has in the past, taken an active role if there are coyote attacks on humans. LOS ANGELES COUNTY Los Angeles County is currently utilizing community outreach and education to address coyotes. Based on the severity of a coyote incident, the County may provide an onsite visit to provide suggestions on how to protect your home. In addition to education, the County follows the practice of an Anti- Feeding Ordinance which is illustrated in Code §10.84.010. This Code states that it is unlawful to feed a non - domesticated rodent or non - domesticated mammalian predator as defined in this section, unless: • The person is the owner of the animal and the animal is kept in accordance with the requirements of the State Department of Fish and Wildlife; or - • After notifying the responsible agency to pick up the animal, the person provides food to a trapped or injured animal. The Los Angeles County is also developing "Train the Trainer" material, which will be available to cities in early 2017. The City looks forward to available County resources and will utilize any educational material or "training" information provided by the County. SURROUNDING CITIES SURVEY ` `� ' LethalCoatral � � CilyStaffAwmal' Contracted ' ,f � MagagarheptT?lan � � Opiyon> � ,ResuientC;oncemT.evel Control � Coyote Ttappers- ,; Alhham>;ra No written plan, No Minor Yes No practices only Few calls for service Outsourced/ Yes Southeast Area No written plan, Minor Bellflower ;: practices only Trapping/ Few calls far service Animal Control Yes Euthani2ing Authority (SEAACA) Yes Major Iahgrl3ea�h Written plan Trapping/ One call for service per day Yes Yes r Euthanizing A plan is being Minor OutsourcedlSEA Mprbello No Y developed. Few calls for service CCA Mor�tere� No written plan, No Major yes Yes Park; , „ practices only One call for service per day 's Outsourced/ San Minor SanG�brlehNowrittenplan, No Gabriel Valley Yes practices only Very few service calls Humane Society Wrttenplanwith Yes Major Outsourced/C$y %06,4 cll elevated threat Trapping/ Many calls for service ofLongBeach Yes responses, Euthanizing Outsourced/ San No written plan, Minor Toile Cny No Gabriel Valley No practices only Few calls for service Humane Society REGIONAL APPROACH The City will continue communication with Representatives from both the State and County to address the coyote situation. Although the City's Coyote Management Plan utilizes many of the same educations strategies, the City will utilize any available State and County resources to educate and limit coyote interaction with humans to improve public safety. When appropriate, the City will coordinate with surrounding communities to address coyotes. RESPONSE PLAN 1. Implement the Management and Response Plan a. Coyote Behavior and recommended Response (Appendix A) 2. Education a. Coyote Informational Flyers (Residents and Businesses) i. Informational flyer in four languages (English, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Spanish) b. Coyote Workshops i. April (Pup Season) ii. December /January (Dispersal Season) c. Yard Audit Checklist (Appendix E) 3. Hazing Tools: Whistle distribution a. Coyote hazing whistles are free to Rosemead Residents and Businesses and are available at the following locations: i. City Hall (8838 E. Valley Boulevard) ii. Rosemead Community Recreation Center (3936 N. Muscatel Avenue) iii. Garvey Center (9108 Garvey Avenue) iv. Public Safety Center (8301 Garvey Avenue) 4. Habitat Management in Suburban Areas a. Areas with lush landscaping provide ample food, water, and shelter for coyotes. Suburban coyotes can reach densities far greater than they do on rangeland or undeveloped wildlands. Homeowners can reduce the attractiveness of their property to coyotes by clearing or thinning thick vegetation and by removing brush and dense weeds from the landscape, thereby depriving coyotes and their prey of shelter and cover. In particular, prune back the lower limbs and branches of shrubs and small trees to a height of 2 feet, to deprive coyotes of cover where they can easily hide. Avoid using landscape plants that produce fruits and seeds, and pick fruit from trees before it falls to the ground to avoid attracting coyotes. Coyotes are attracted to ripening fruits of many kinds, and they will also readily consume the fruits of some plants commonly used for landscaping. Install quality fencing around garden plots to exclude coyotes, as they will eat many common garden fruits and vegetables. 10 Compost piles should be managed carefully so they will not encourage rodents or other prey attractive to coyotes, and they should be fenced or contained to exclude coyotes from foraging for grubs and worms. Eliminate available water sources for coyotes and other wildlife; for example, remove ponds or fountains, or install net wire fences around their perimeter. Manage bird feeders carefully to avoid spillage that attracts rodents and rabbits, which are attractive coyote prey. 5. Coyote Removal in Suburban Areas a._ Once coyotes have lost their fear of humans or have started behaving aggressively, a health and safety hazard exists. Usually it can be remedied only by removal of one or more of the coyotes. Typically, coyote removal in urban or suburban areas is conducted by predator control professionals who shoot coyotes or capture them in padded leg hold traps or snares. Captured coyotes must be destroyed, as relocating problem coyotes would incur unacceptable liability and risk on the part of the agency involved, and relocation is illegal without prior approval of the California Department of Fish & Game. Management experience has shown that removal of only a few problem coyotes from a population will reinstall fear of humans in the remaining population, often solving coyote problems in that locality for months or even years. Because other coyotes quickly move into occupy vacant territories, removal of several animals has no long -term impact on coyote numbers. Following coyote removal, local agencies or authorities should evaluate the entire neighborhood and recommend preventive measures that homeowners should take in order to make the area less attractive to coyotes, thus preventing recurrence of the problem. 11 DEFINITIONS OF ENCOUNTERS WITH COYOTES Active Coexistence Humans and coyotes exist together, whereby communities decide on open, public space where coyotes are appropriate and do not haze, feed or interact with them in these areas. Humans take an active role in keeping - coyotes in their community wild by learning about coyote ecology and behavior, removing attractants, taking responsibility for pet safety, and hazing coyotes in neighborhood or community spaces (except for predetermined coyote appropriate areas). Attack A human is injured or killed by a coyote. Provoked A human - provoked attack or incident where the human involved encourages the coyote to engage; for example, when a human intentionally approaches or feeds the coyote. Unprovoked An unprovoked attack or incident where the human involved does not encourage the coyote to engage. Pet Attack A domestic animal is injured or killed by a coyote. Attended animal loss or injury When a person is within six feet of the pet and the pet is on a leash and is attacked and injured by a coyote. Unattended animal loss or injury A coyote injures or kills a pet without the owner being present, or when the owner is further than six feet from the coyote, or when the pet is on a leash longer than six feet. Also includes "depredation" -predation on domestic pets or livestock. Note: A pet attack, of an unattended animal loss or injury, is normal behavior by a coyote. Suspected Pet Attack Remains may be found and indicate that an animal was attacked by a coyote, and in cases where Animal Control Officers respond to these calls without knowledge of an actual attack, the incident will be recorded as a suspected attack. Note: A coyote is an opportunistic feeder and may feed on animals, especially cats, which were previously killed by cars or other means. Encounter An unexpected, direct meeting between a human and a coyote that is without incident. Feeding - Intentional A resident or business actively and intentionally feeds coyotes, including intentionally providing food for animals in the coyote food chain. Feeding - Unintentional A resident or business unintentionally provides access to food, such as accessible compost, fallen fruit from trees, left open - sheds and doors, pet food left outdoors, etc. Feeding -_ Unintentional - Bird Feeders A resident or business with bird feeders that may provide a food source for coyotes, such as bird foods, birds, rodents, squirrels. Bird feeders must be kept high enough from the ground so a coyote is unable to reach the feeding animals, and the area under the bird feeder must be kept clean and free of residual bird food. Hazing Training method that employs immediate use of deterrents to move an animal out of an area or discourage an undesirable behavior or activity. Hazing techniques include loud noises, spraying water, bright lights, throwing objects, and shouting. Hazing can help maintain coyotes' fear of humans and deter them from neighborhood spaces such as backyards and play areas. Hazing does not damage animals, humans or property. Threat Incident A conflict between a human and a coyote where the coyote exhibits the following behavior - approaches a human and growls, bares teeth or lunges, and/or injures or kills an attended domestic animal - but where a human is not injured. Stalking incident A conflict between a human and a coyote where the coyote exhibits the following behavior - follows a person with or without an attended pet on leash - but a human is not inured. Observation The act of noticing or taking note of tracks, scat or vocalizations. Sighting A visual observation of a coyote(s). Note: A sighting may occur at any time of the day or night. Unsecured Trash Trash that is accessible to wildlife, such as overflowing garbage cans, open trash bags, uncovered dumpsters or where debris is scattered outside the receptacle. COYOTE BEHAVIOR AND RECOMMENDED RESPONSE Coyote Action Citv Response Coyote heard or seen moving in an area Provide educational materials and frequented by eo le. information on normal coyote behavior. Coyote seen resting in an area; If area frequented by people, educate them on normal coyote behavior and hazing - Coyote following or approaching (stalking) techniques to encourage the animal to leave, person without a pet; and look for and eliminate attractants. Coyote following or approaching ( stalling) Provide information on coyote hazing and person and pet; pet safety protocols and "what to do" tips when being followed by a coyote. Coyote entering a yard without people or pets; Educate residents on coyote attractants, yard/neighborhood audits, and provide Coyote entering a yard with pets, but with additional hazing resources. no injury occurring; and/or Gather information on specific animals Coyote biting or injuring an unattended pet. involved and document and report circumstances surrounding incident. Coyote entering yard and injuring or killing Gather information on specific animals pet without people present; involved, and document, map and report on circumstances of incident. Coyote entering yard with people and pets, with no injury occurring; Educate residents about identifying and eliminating coyote attractants. Coyote biting or injuring attended pet or pet on leash less than six feet in length; Encourage residents to conduct yard and neighborhood audits and enact pet safety Coyote entering interior of dwelling; and/or protocols. Coyote acting aggressive, showing teeth, Targeted lethal removal including trapping back fur raised or lunging. will be considered and may be implemented. Coyote biting or injuring person City staff informs the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) for elimination of the responsible coyote(s). City staff identifies and gathers information on specific animal involved and reports circumstances of the incident to DFW APPENDIX C 'iP THE HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE UNITED STATES APPENDIXA: COYOTE INCIDENT REPORT FORM Time of interaction: Duration of Interaction: r Name of reporting party: Address of reporting Phone number of reporting party: Address of interadion: Location type (park, commercial property, residential property, natural preserve, vacant land, other): Type of interaction: Observation, Sighting, Encounter, Incident Pet Attack: Attended/Unattended or Human Attack: Provoked/ Unprovoked? (See Reverse for Definitions) Activity of reporting party prior to interaction (e.g. walking, running, riding bike): Was the coyote being Intentionally fed? ............... ............................... ............................Yes O ....... _......................No O Wasthere pet food present? ............................... ............................... ............................Yes 0.. . ...... ...................... No O Was unsecured garbage present ? ........ .... . ..................................... .............. ___ ...... Yes 0 ...................... ........ No O Were other food attractants present? ................ ............................... ............................Yes 0 .......... ................... No 0 (e.g. birdseed, compost fruit, etc.) Ifyes, describe: Was a pet involved ?.. .................. ................Yes 0 ......... ...... . ... ...... No O Type of pet: ....... . . ................ Cat O ........ ....... Dog 0 .............. other 0 Breedlweight of pet:_. Waspet on leash? ..................... ......... ............................... ............................Yes 0.. - , ....No 0 (If yes, was leash longerthan 6 ft.?) ............. ............................... ................... Yes 0...................... ...No O Description of interaction /what happened: Actions taken by reporting party (e.g. ran away, hazed coyote, none, etc.): Mow did coyote respond? (e.g, ran away, approached, A TEMPLATE COYOTE MANAGEMENT& COEXISTENCE PLAN 115 OFFICE USE ONLY Outcome of Incident Human Injuries: Post Exposure Rabies Vaccination Recommended: Yes 0 .............. I ... .No O Pet killed:.......... Yes O ...................No O Coyote injuries: Coyote euthanized :....... Yes 0 ...................No O Coyote necropsy results: Stomach contents; human food. ........ .... ... ................ ............................... Yes 0... .... ........ No O Sign disease; ....................... .......... ..... .......,......... ....... ..... ................ Yes 0_ ....... ... ._ No 0 If Yes, describe DEFINITIONS: OBSERVATION: The act of noticing signs of a coyote(s), such as tracks, scat, or vocalizations, but without visual observation of the coyote(s). SIGHTING: A visual observation of a coyote(s). A sighting may occur at any time of the day or night, ENCOUNTER: A direct meeting that is between human and coyote(s) with no physical contact and that is without incident, INCIDENT: A conflict between a human and a coyote where the coyote exhibits any of the following behaviors: growling, baring teeth, lunging or making physical contact with person. A human is not bitten. HUMAN ATTACK: A human is bitten by a coyote(s). Provoked An attack where the involved human encourages the coyote to engage. Examples include a human hand - feeding a coyote, approaching a coyote with pups or intervening in a coyote attack on a pet. Unprovoked: An attack where the involved human does not encourage the coyote to engage, PET ATTACK: Coyote(s) kills or injures a domestic pet. Attended: Pet is on a leash less than six feet in length or is in the presence of a person less than six feet away. Unattended; Pet is free - roaming, walking off -leash more than six feet from a person, or on a leash longer than six feet, LIVESTOCK LOSS /DEPREDATION: Coyote(s) kills or injures livestock. ATEMPIAM COYOTE MANAGEMCNTS, COEXISTENCE PLAN 116 APPENDIX D Summary of Trapping Laws and Regulations Laws and regulations that apply when trapping for profit to alleviate animal damage and nuisance wildlife problems: • Trapping license is required if working for an animal damage /nuisance wildlife control company (Fish and Game Code (FGC) Section 4005) • You must have your trapping license in your immediate possession while trapping for either commercial fur or nuisance wildlife control purposes (FGC Sect. 1054.2) • Cage and box traps, nets, suitcase -type live beaver traps, and common rat and mouse traps are not considered body - gripping traps (Title 14 California Code of Regulations Section 465.5) • Leg -hold traps may be used only to protect human health or safety, and only by government agencies (T 14 CCR Sect. 465.5) • Body - gripping traps may be used to prevent property damage (T 14 CCR Sect. 465.5) • Poison, intentional drowning, injection with any chemical not sold for the purpose of euthanizing animals and thoracic compression or "chest crushing" are not authorized methods of take (T 14 CCR Sect. 465.5 & 475) • Steel jawed leg -hold traps are prohibited (T 14 CCR Sect. 465.5) • Traps must be inspected and trapped animals removed at least once daily (T 14 CCR Sect. 465.5) • A trapper must either euthanize a trapped animal or release it immediately on site (T 14 CCR Sect. 465.5) • It is illegal to set or maintain traps which do not bear a number or other identifying mark registered to the department (T 14 CCR Sect. 465.5) • A trapper may not set a trap within 150 yards of any structure used as a permanent or temporary residence, unless such traps are set by a person controlling such property or by a person who has and is carrying with him written consent of the landowner to so place the trap or traps (T 14 CCR Sect. 465.5) • Fur - bearing or nongame mammals taken under the authority of depredation, may not be bought, sold or enter into the commercial market (FGC 4005 & T 14 CCR Sect. 465.5) • The pelts of animals taken with body - gripping traps may not be sold (FGC 4005 & T 14 CCR Sect. 465.5) • A trapping license may be revoked for a violation of the trapping laws and regulations (FGC Sect. 4043) • Fur- bearing and/or nongame mammals that are injuring property may be taken at any time and/or in any manner (FGC Sect. 4152 & 4180) APPENDIX E YARD AUDIT CHECKLIST Residents are encouraged to take steps to eliminate attractants on their property and to share this information with friends and neighbors, as minimizing conflicts with coyotes is most effective when the entire neighborhood works together. OK FIX WAYS TO MITIGATE FOOD NEVER intentionally (hand -) feed a coyote! Never feed pets outdoors; store all pet food securely Pet Food indoors. Remove water attractants (such as fountains) in dry Water Sources climates. Remove bird feeders or clean fallen seed to reduce the Bird Feeders resence of small mammals that coyotes prefer to eat. Fallen Fruit Clean up fallen fruit around trees. Do not include meat or dairy among compost contents Compost unless fully enclosed. BBQ Grills I can up food around barbeque grills after each use. Secure all trash containers with locking lids and place Trash curbside the morning of trash pickup. Periodically clean cans to reduce residual odors. Trim vegetation to reduce hiding places and potential LANDSCAPING denning sites. Restrict access under decks and sheds, around STRUCTURES & woodpiles, or any other structure that can provide OUTBUILDINGS cover or denning sites for coyotes or their prey. Enclose property with an 8 -foot fence (or a 6 -foot fence with an additional extension or roller -top) to deter coyotes. Ensure that there are no gaps and that the FENCING* bottom of the fence extends underground six (6) inches or is fitted with a mesh apron to deter coyotes from digging underneath. *Must comply with Rosemead Municipal Code(s). Never leave pets unattended outside. Never allow pets to "play" with coyotes. PETS Fully enclose outdoor pet kennels. Wall, pets on a leash no longer than 6 feet in length. Residents are encouraged to take steps to eliminate attractants on their property and to share this information with friends and neighbors, as minimizing conflicts with coyotes is most effective when the entire neighborhood works together.