Coyote Activity

Dear Moulton Ranch III Residents,

The Association has recently received several reports of increased coyote activity throughout the community. Coyotes are native to Southern California and are commonly found in residential neighborhoods adjacent to open space. While sightings are not unusual, it is important for all residents to take precautions to help keep our community safe.

Please help reduce the likelihood of coyote encounters by following these recommendations:

• Never feed coyotes or other wildlife.
• Keep cats indoors whenever possible.
• Always supervise small pets outdoors and keep dogs on a short leash while walking.
• Avoid walking pets at dawn, dusk, or after dark, when coyotes are most active.
• Secure trash containers and remove outdoor pet food and water bowls.
• Pick up fallen fruit and clean outdoor cooking areas to eliminate food sources.
• If you encounter a coyote, do not run. Instead, make yourself appear as large as possible, make loud noises, clap your hands, wave your arms, or use a whistle or air horn to encourage the coyote to leave the area.

The Association will continue to maintain the common areas, including trimming vegetation where appropriate to improve visibility. However, because coyotes are native wildlife, there is no effective way to permanently remove them from the area. The most effective way to reduce coyote activity is for the community to work together to eliminate food sources and reinforce coyotes’ natural fear of people.

If you observe a coyote exhibiting unusually bold or aggressive behavior toward people, please report it to:

Mission Viejo Animal Services
Phone: (949) 470-3045
Website: https://cityofmissionviejo.org/departments/animal-services

California Department of Fish and Wildlife – South Coast Region
Phone: (858) 467-4201
Website: https://wildlife.ca.gov

If there is an immediate threat to public safety or a coyote attack on a person, call 911 immediately.

Thank you for your cooperation in helping keep Moulton Ranch III a safe community for residents, pets, and wildlife.