On Thursday, June 30, the Ventura Hillsides Conservancy (VHC) will host “Coexisting with Coyotes,” a free open-to- the-public presentation providing information about coyotes, their behaviors and how residents can reduce human-wildlife conflicts. Wildlife biologist David Lee will make a presentation and discuss the recent uptick in urban coyote activity. The presentation, which will take place from 7 – 8 p.m. in the Poinsettia Pavilion’s Canada Larga Room, 3451 Foothill Road, will be followed by a question and answer session.
Known as “song dogs,” coyote nighttime yips and howls are often heard coming from the Ventura hills. Coyotes howl to communicate to other pack members, to coordinate hunts, establish territories and simply to let other coyotes know where they are. All too often coyotes are given a ‘bad rap’ but in reality, they are one of North America’s unique wildlife species.
During California’s ongoing drought, human-coyote interactions have increased. Coyotes on the lookout for food and water are venturing into gardens, backyards, alleyways, parks and open spaces. Favorite non-wild coyote foods include garbage, fruit from landscaped trees, and even the occasional small pet.
Lee, a senior biologist with Davey Resource Group (DRG), will discuss ways homeowners can discourage coyotes from entering their properties and how to react when they encounter a coyote in their neighborhood.
To RSVP, please visit www.venturahillsides.org/events. For more information, call VHC at: 805-643- 8044.
