Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Police report

Living in Riverside, we often get disturbing police reports about robbings and shootings.
This one is a little different though. While nothing will beat BYU's police beat, this one is amusing in it's own California way.


To: UCR Community
Fr: UCPD
Re: Coyote Sighting

On 08/06/11 at 5:33pm UCPD officers were dispatched to 3400 block of Avocado St. in the UCR Canyon Crest Family Housing area regarding a coyote that growled at an 8-year old boy. The boy's father reported that the coyote was still on the patio and was not leaving.

When the officers arrived, the coyote ran away southbound towards Linden St. Officers followed the coyote until it ran out of Family Housing.

There have been several other coyote sightings in the area in the past few weeks. UCR Housing has contracted with an animal control service to attempt to humanely trap coyotes in the area. If you are encountered by a coyote that appears to be aggressive please call UCPD at 951-827-5222.



Below are some safety tips to keep in mind:


Do not feed any wild animals such as raccoons or deer, which encourages coyotes as well.

Keep cats indoors at all times.


Keep your dog on a leash.


Do not leave cat or dog food outside.


Keep all garbage containers closed and inaccessible. Adding ammonia or pepper spray to trash can discourage rummaging by coyotes and other wildlife.


Do not let pets out at night unless accompanied by a person.


Do not feed coyotes! Avoid overflowing bird feeders and open compost bins.


Obey leash laws. Small dogs on the loose are attractive prey for coyotes, especially at night.


Cats? Keep them inside, along with pet food bowls.


In dry climates, even a water bowl can draw coyotes.


Do not invite coyotes to build dens next to (or under) your home: Seal crawl spaces, close sheds and thin brushy areas.


Even if you love seeing coyotes, do not let them know it. If a coyote visits your yard, wave your arms, shout, spray it with a hose. Be a threat!



Description of coyotes


They have grayish, yellowish, brownish fur on the top and whitish fur underneath. They have large ears that look like triangles and a long narrow muzzle. They look a bit like a wolf, but the most important difference is when they run; a dog runs with the tail up, a wolf runs with it's tail straight out but the coyote runs with its tail down. That is one way you can tell it's a coyote