By Pat KRAMER

Coyotes are becoming increasingly prevalent in local neighborhoods along the foothill communities. Increasing development has led to a loss of natural wildlife habitat areas and the ongoing drought has further caused a scarcity in their food sources. These contributing factors mean residents will see more wildlife coming out of the hills to seek food and water and with that comes a rise in natural threats to small pets and farm animals.

On Tuesday, Jan. 10 at 7:30 p.m., the Crescenta Valley group of the Sierra Club will host “Living Side-by-Side with Coyotes,” a presentation by the Los Angeles County Dept. of Agriculture with Public Information Officer Ken Pellman.

“Coyotes are our permanent neighbors,” said Pellman. “So how do we exist side-by-side? Keep them wild and protect your children and pets.”

Pellman will be joined by wildlife expert and biology teacher Dana Stangel, the founder of the educational wildlife non-profit Teranga Ranch and chairperson of the Animal Issues Committee of the Sunland-Tujunga Neighborhood Council. Stangel is an advocate for educating the public on the habits of coyotes.

“My presentation covers coyote natural history, current coyote situations and learning about humane deterrents to lower the risk of unwanted interactions with coyotes and better live with our native wildlife,” he said.

Common sense tips on decreasing coyote visitations on neighborhood streets include:

•Do not feed wildlife. Having food sources available ensures repeat visits by not just one coyote but others that will learn of the food source. It is also best to not feed animals outside as traces of food will remain.

•Keep garbage in secure, wildlife-proof containers.

•Keep cats indoors; residents should not let dogs run freely outside their secured yard.

•For those who encounter a coyote, it is suggested to raise your arms and yell to drive them away. This technique is known as “hazing.”

•Never use animal traps or poison; this is bad for other animals and lethal for pets.

Prior to the presentation on coyotes, there will be an update provided on current issues in the Angeles National Forest by Deputy District Ranger Butler from the LA River Ranger District.

The Sierra Club presentation is free and takes place at the La Crescenta Library, 2809 Foothill Blvd., La Crescenta at 7:30 p.m. Light refreshments will be provided. All are welcome.

  Pat KRAMER