Recognize that the coyote is indigenous to Agoura Hills. We built our city in the coyote's backyard and the coyote has adapted to this environment. We should adapt to the presence of the coyote.

Coyote (Canis Latrans)
The coyote weighs 20 to 30 pounds and stands 23 to 26 inches at the shoulder. In appearance, the coyote looks similar to a tan colored shepherd type dog with long pointed muzzle, large ears and long legs. The coyote is an extremely intelligent predator that has adapted to living in close proximity to humans. Coyotes, whose natural habitat is the Los Angeles basin, have adjusted to the shrinking habitat by living closer to humans, sometimes in residential areas, parks, and on the landscaped areas of the freeway system. Coyotes use the flood control channels, freeways, hillside erosion gutters, city streets, and sidewalks as convenient means of travel. They find an abundant source of water from swimming pools, gutters, leaking hose faucets, and sprinkler heads, bird baths and pet water dishes in residential areas.

Although the coyote is an excellent hunter, feeding primarily on rats, mice, ground squirrels, rabbits, insects, carrion and fruit, it will not hesitate to kill cats, small dogs, poultry, sheep or goats, given the opportunity. They learn that domestic animals are easier to catch than wild prey and will prowl neighborhoods in search of unattended domestic animals.

Living with Coyotes
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California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations prohibit the relocation of coyotes without written permission from the Department.

California Department of Fish and Wildlife Regional Office - South Coast Region (858) 467-4201. 
County of Los Angeles Agricultural Commissioner/Weights & Measures at (626) 575-5462