Coyotes Seen in Saratoga

—Editor's Note: The following information was contributed by the City of Saratoga. It's been edited for brevity and clarity.

Recently, the city has received a few calls from concerned residents who have seen coyotes near their homes. Urban sprawl and habitat encroachment are the main reasons behind increased wild animal sightings and challenges. The loss of open space and natural habitat has also decreased territories for wild animals to live and has disrupted predator-prey cycles.

Coyotes are nocturnal animals that resemble medium-sized dogs, have a reddish coat, and a bushy tail with a black tip. Notably, during this late spring season, the female coyote has recently given birth to a litter size of approximately six pups and must hunt for food to feed them. They may also exhibit more aggressive behavior if found near their den. 
 
Coyotes are not considered a disease threat. Outbreaks of rabies in coyotes are rare and they are not commonly implicated in the transmission of the disease to humans or domestic animals. Coyotes have solitary hunting habits, and mostly feed on rodents, vegetation, and insects. Coyotes are also opportunist eaters and thrive on food sources often found in residential areas including unsecured waste, rodents attracted to bird feeders, and pet food left outside. 

If you have a coyote encounter, remember the following:

• Never feed or attempt to "tame" a coyote.
• Avoid direct eye contact.
• Do not turn your back or run from a coyote.
• Attempt to leave the area calmly.
• If followed by a coyote, make loud noises and make yourself look big. If this fails, throw rocks.
• Always keep yourself between the coyote and small children.

For more information about coexisting with coyotes, visit the Wildlife Center of Silicon Valley.

You may also call the County's Vector Control 408-918-4770 to report your sighting or visit the Vector Control website.