Did Euthanized Coyotes Attack 91-Year-Old Laguna Beach Man?

LAGUNA BEACH, CA —Two male coyotes were captured and euthanized after an attack on a resident, officials say. After DNA tests were conducted, neither of the coyotes was responsible for the Oak Street and Temple Terrace attack from one week ago.

Both coyotes were trapped last weekend, and both were euthanized. The Laguna Beach City Council member Steve Dicterow expressed his sorrow at the multiple euthanasia, saying "I don't understand the rationale to kill two innocent coyotes."

It is a "rock and a hard place" according to Foy, when it comes to just trapping coyotes and keeping them isolated until DNA tests were returned. "We would have to give them food and water, which imprints on the coyote that people are a source of food." He also mentioned the coyote that bit the man remains at large, and people should remain cautious of a potentially aggressive wild animal.

Last Friday, a 91-year-old Laguna Beach resident was attacked by a coyote when he went out for his morning paper. He was bitten several times, according to reports, and taken to the hospital where the DNA of the attacking coyote was recovered.

The resident suffered rabies shots as a precaution, according to Laguna Beach Animal Control officer Jim Beres. He was returned home the following Monday, Laguna Beach Police told Patch.

One week later, officials now know it was a female coyote who bit the resident, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife Capt. Patrick Foy.

Based upon the DNA sample from the man's bite, it was a female adult coyote, according to Foy, and not a dog as has been posited by residents.

Report coyote sightings in Laguna Beach to: coyotes@lagunabeachcity.net.

Most coyotes within the urban setting are the offspring of generations of coyotes that have lived and flourished in Orange County's urban areas.

Here are the tips to keep you and your pets safe:

• Never get friendly with coyotes.
• If followed by a coyote, make loud noises. If this fails, throw rocks in the animal's direction.
• Do not leave small children or pets outside unattended.
• Do not allow cats outdoors to roam (day or night).
• Do not use a retractable leash—a leash should be no more than 6 feet. This allows you to be in control of your pet and ensures it's close to you at all times.
• Trim ground-level shrubbery and clear brush near your home to reduce places where coyotes live and hide.
• Keep pet rabbits in suitable cages.
• Keep tight covers on all trash containers, and put trash out on collection day at the latest opportunity.
• Never leave water or pet food outside.
• Eliminate potential food and water sources, such as fallen fruit and standing water.
• Never feed coyotes.
• Never attempt to touch, pet or capture wildlife. These animals will bite to protect themselves.

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