Village News

Coyotes are everywhere—found in every corner of Orange County. 

Though far from domesticated, these animals are very comfortable living in close proximity to humans and have little fear of us. Coyote sightings in the Village are common, as we are located adjacent to their natural habitat. Knowing how to handle an encounter is important, particularly during coyote mating season, which runs from January through March and peaks late February to early March. During this period, male coyotes become more aggressive and may even attempt to mate with dogs. In addition, the first few months after birth of pups, female coyotes tend to be more protective of their young.

While not normally a danger to us, coyotes will display defensive behaviors if threatened or cornered, which is why it’s important to leave a comfortable distance between you and a coyote. If you do encounter one that behaves aggressively, you probably are too close to its prey or family and need to increase the “comfort zone” between you and the animal. 

According to OC Community Resources, OC Animal Care and other animal and wildlife government agencies, eradication and/or relocation of urban coyotes is ineffective. However, by practicing defensive measures, you can minimize the nuisance and prevent small pet losses caused by coyotes.

Information and Resources

The Laguna Beach Police Department’s Animal Services Division will respond to situations in the Village regarding any coyote that is exhibiting aggressive behavior; is sick, injured or dead; or has had physical contact with humans or domestic animals. To report encounters, call 949-497-0701 or email coyotes@lagunabeachcity.net. 

Please Don’t Feed Village Wildlife

Feeding wildlife is illegal in California. Here in the Village, both mutuals also prohibit feeding or attracting animals. In Third, Resolution 03-16-117, Care & Maintenance of Patios, Balconies, Breezeways & Walkways states “… Items that constitute a nuisance to one’s neighbors should not be placed in common areas or limited common areas. Examples are … food or water, which will attract birds, insects, or other animals …”

In United, Resolution 01-03-134, Care & Maintenance of Patios, Balconies, Breezeways & Walkways states, “Items that constitute a nuisance to one’s neighbors should not be placed in common areas or limited common areas. Examples are, but not limited to, intrusive wind chimes, reflective objects, food or water that could attract birds, insects, rodents or other animals.”

If you see neighbors feeding wildlife, please call Security at 949-580-1400. Complaints may be anonymous.

Take the following steps to protect yourself, your pets and your property from coyotes and other wildlife: 

• Don’t ever feed coyotes or any wild animal
• Eliminate potential food and water sources, such as fallen fruit and standing water
• Feed pets indoors
• Keep cats and small dogs indoors or supervise closely when outdoors
• Store trash in covered heavy-duty containers
• Keep yard areas and patios free from potential shelter, such as thick brush and/or weeds

For more Village news, click on the tag “What’s Up in the Village” below.