According to a press release by the Glendale Police Dept., on the morning of Dec. 18 a Glendale resident found the remains of a small deer in the 3300 block of Dunsmere Road. Pasadena Humane Society was called to the scene and suspect the deer was killed by a coyote.

Glendale is home to a variety of animals. While coyotes play an important role in the ecosystem by keeping rodent populations under control, steps should be taken to deter them from neighborhoods.

The following safety tips are provided by the Dept. of Fish & Game.

‘Coyote country’ precautions

• Do not leave small children or pets outside unattended.

• Install motion-sensitive lighting around the house.

• Trim ground-level shrubbery to reduce hiding places.

• Be aware that coyotes are more active in the spring, when feeding and protecting their young.

• If followed by a coyote, make loud noises. If this fails, throw rocks in the animal’s direction.

• If a coyote attacks a person, immediately contact the nearest Department of Fish and Game or law enforcement office.

Stash Your Food and Trash

• Put garbage in tightly closed containers that cannot be tipped over.

• Bring pets in at night, and do not leave pet food outside.

• Put away bird feeders at night to avoid attracting rodents and other coyote prey.

• Pick up fallen fruit and cover compost piles.

• Ask your neighbors to follow these tips.

For more information on coyotes visit L.A. County’s site to hear coyote sounds. Visit City of Glendale’s brochure on coyote safety.