East Bay park visitors are being warned about increased encounters with coyotes during the warmer months.
From spring through fall, when new pups are born, coyote parents are active and protective of den sites. While they normally run away when spotted, some are used to humans and will continue their activities.
Still, visitors should be aware of safety precautions: don’t hike alone, keep children and pets nearby and your dogs on a leash, be aware of your surroundings as you walk, jog or ride, stay on the trails and never attempt to feed a coyote.
If you see a coyote, keep an eye on them and observe them from afar. Don’t approach or engage with one, just walk away calmly and leave the area. Do not run.
Those with small children are advised to keep them close by. If you have a small dog, keep them on a leash.
On the rare occasion that a coyote approaches you, encourage them to move away by being as big and loud as possible. Wave your arms. Maintaining eye contact can make coyotes uncomfortable and timid.
If the coyote continues to approach, do not run or turn your back on the coyote but continue to exaggerate the above gestures while backing away slowly.
For more information, visit www.ebparks.org/safety.
