WEST HOLLYWOOD—Residents in West Hollywood are raising concerns about coyotes who occupied the abandoned construction site located at 939 N. Spalding Avenue/7732 Romaine Street. Neighbors of the construction site have footage of at least four coyotes who appear to have moved into the unfinished structure.
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.
Residents reported the coyote sightings 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. Coyotes have been venturing out in broad daylight.
“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,” the California Department of Fish and Wildlife states on their website.
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, and fawns. While generally afraid of humans, coyotes are opportunistic predators and have been known to attack small children.
West Hollywood has an entire section on their website dedicated to Coyote Management noting to keep a distance from the animals, keep dogs on a leash, cats indoors, don’t leave foot outside and trash bins closed.
