SAN DIEGO — Neighbors in North Pacific Beach have seen a coyote roaming the streets for several weeks now. The sightings prompted some neighbors to put up warning signs and others have alerted neighbors on social media sites.
Turns out, the coyote was pregnant and her four pups were discovered under a deck.
The family that lives in the home, fearing for their safety, captured the pups and took them to the San Diego Humane Society. They have now been transported to their Ramona Wildlife Center.
“So far, they're doing fine,” said Campus Director Andy Blue. He says the pups appear to be about three weeks old and are healthy. They're being bottle-fed several times a day and he fully expects them to be released back into the wild once it's clear they can fend for themselves.
“Last year, we raised 15 orphaned coyote pups and were released back out - so we've been successful with many species and I anticipate will be successful with these little ones,” Andy said.
Although these pups should be fine, Andy says it’s best not to remove any babies that seem to be healthy and doing well.
“We get many calls a year for animals - raccoon babies - animals living under people's deck and often they'll move on,” he said. “If there's commotion and acting around, the mothers will usually move them to another site.”
That said, it can be concerning spotting a coyote roaming your neighborhood. Andy's advice if you see one ”Make yourself larger,” he said.
“Take off your jacket and wave it. Something to startle them. Anything to startle them is what works. Something they're not used to seeing.” He says walking your dog on a leash helps and pick up your pet if it's small. He also says it's not a good idea to feed any wildlife because you may get more than your bargained for.
“Even birdseeds can attract mice and squirrels and animals on to your property that will then attract a coyote or animal you may not want on your property,” Andy said.
Because the momma coyote does not appear injured, the Humane Society has no plans to trap it. It should eventually head back into a canyon area.
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