Coyotes Confront Hikers In Open Space Area

There were two reports of coyotes attacking dogs in East Bay Regional Park District open spaces on Thursday.

A Patch reader reported she encountered a pack of coyotes in the Sycamore Valley open space while hiking with her dogs. The coyotes chased and tried unsuccessfully to attack the dogs. She eventually got help to scare the coyotes away.

Steven Bobzien of the East Bay Regional Park District wildlife management department confirmed another attack in Briones Park as well. A rancher and his dogs were herding livestock when a pack of coyotes attacked the dogs.

"What happens sometimes is dogs got close to a den site. There are pups in the dens about now and they'll be emerging soon," Bobzien said. "The pups are vulnerable now. That could be explaining some of this behavior.

"Also, it's been a dry year. Coyotes sometimes get aggressive and will attack and kill dogs during dry years. They will exhibit this bold behavior."

Bobzien's advice to hikers is to keep dogs on a leash. "Coyotes will be much less likely to attack dogs that are on leash and kept close to you," he said. "Also, if the coyotes do show aggressive behavior, haze them by throwing rocks and screaming. They really don't like that behavior from people. That'll send them running away."

The California Department of Fish and Game offers the following advice to residents for dealing with wildlife:

• Do not feed the deer. It is illegal in California.
• Do not allow pets outside -- particularly at dawn, dusk or night.
• Bring pet food inside to avoid attracting coyotes, raccoons or opossums. 

If you encounter a coyote: