In a far off galaxy, a long long time ago, I lived in Southern California. Coyotes were everywhere, as ubiquitous as pigeons. It wasn't a problem. I don't see why people in Denver can't do the same. Around the University of Denver we have foxes, coyotes, racoons, hawks, owls and grad students and we all get along just fine, for the most part.Denver Parks & Rec's urban ecologist Ashley DeLaup will talk about getting along with urban wildlife on Tuesday, Aug. 11 at the Platt Park People's Association meeting, 6:30PM at Hope Community Church, 1801 S. Logan St., Denver.
The bottom line with wildlife:
-Don't feed them and please, don't try to make them your "special friend."
-Keep an eye on your pets, even in their own yard and especially at night. Don't leave pet food outside. Keep pets in fenced areas or kennels; remember split rail fences and invisible fences will not keep your pet safe from predators. Pet kennels and runs should have a fully-enclosed roof.
-Frighten off wildlife with loud noises; use unnatural odors (such as ammonia) to clean trash cans.
-Remove food attractants such as pet food, table scraps on compost piles, fallen fruit, and spilled
seed beneath birdfeeders.
-Remove vegetation and brush that provides cover for prey and hiding cover for coyotes; trim lower limbs of shrubs and conifer trees.
-Use yard lights with motion detectors, appearance of the sudden light may frighten coyotes away
Although rare, coyotes have been known to injure people. Most of these incidents involved people feeding coyotes. Teach your family to steer clear of wildlife.
-Do not turn your back, and don't run.
-If approached or followed by a coyote, make loud noises, yell and make yourself look big.
-If the coyote approaches to an uncomfortably close distance, throw rocks or other objects at the coyote.
-Adults should keep themselves between the coyote and small children.
No comments:
Post a Comment