Dispatches From The Deep

Coyotes in Santa Cruz, California, have been increasingly visible, likely due to drought conditions. Residents and hikers have reported a rise in coyote sightings for several months. Concerns among Santa Cruz residents are growing, particularly in neighborhoods where coyotes are believed to be attacking and killing household pets. In response, fish and wildlife officials have offered tips to avoid dangerous interactions with coyotes in the coastal communities of Santa Cruz County.

Historically, over 500,000 coyotes have been killed in California since 1891, predominantly to protect livestock. However, coyotes can be beneficial as they consume other animals considered pests, aiding in controlling populations that might be harmful to people, farms, and ranchland.

Additionally, the UC Santa Cruz Police Department has advised people, especially on the university’s residential campus, to be extra vigilant due to reports of multiple coyotes exploring the campus core.

These developments highlight the complex relationship between urban development and wildlife in Santa Cruz, underscoring the need for awareness and coexistence strategies.