WEST HOLLYWOOD—On July 27, residents raised concerns about coyotes who occupied the abandoned construction site located at 939 N. Spalding Avenue/7732 Romaine Street. Neighbors of the construction site have reportedly caught surveillance footage of at least four coyotes who appear to have moved into the unfinished structure.
Photo Credit: Oscar Sutton
Wildlife experts have indicated that coyotes are known to occupy the dens of other species. Reports indicate that AA CA Property 2 LLC and designer JFAK Architects planned a 4-story, 22-unit condominium complex complete with subterranean parking, and designated to become low-income affordable housing units.
West Hollywood residents reported the coyote citing’s and their baying, yelping, and howling in the night. Wildlife experts indicated that initially well-meaning nature lovers were feeding the predators. Authorities explained that by feeding them, they could lose their fear of humans. By not foraging for their own food, they would rely on humans to eat.
Reports indicate that the coyotes had already begun venturing out in broad daylight.
The City of West Hollywood has an entire section on their website dedicated to Coyote Management.
The following came directly from the website of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
“Coyotes provide many ecosystem benefits, such as controlling rodent and other small mammal populations. They will consume nearly anything, including rodents, rabbits, birds and eggs, reptiles, fruits, and plants, as well as pet food, human food, and trash.
Potential conflict with coyotes may occur due to property damage, loss of pets or small livestock, or human health and safety concerns if a coyote loses its natural fear of humans.”
According to wildlife experts, Coyotes are omnivores, meaning they will eat both plants and animals. June-August coyotes are more active as it is weaning season. This is when they are more protective of their dens.
They are on the hunt for food. Food could consist of anything from berries, lizards, rodents, rabbits, small mammals, goats, antelopes, small deer, fawns…
And while coyotes are generally afraid of humans, they are also opportunistic predators and have been known to attack small children.
West Hollywood West gave the following advice on their X social media page
Keep your distance
Keep dogs on a leash
Keep cats indoors
Don’t leave food outside
Keep trash bins closed
By Sharon