Coyote Yipps

Today I saw the second female youngster who lives with its parents and sister in a small field that that borders one of Los Angeles County’s concrete ‘rivers’.  The sister I saw on March 30 when she was with her father.  I last saw Mom on February22 and I had last seen today’s coyote on January 24.

My leashed dog, Holtz, and I spotted her while we walked north on their road.  When she saw us she fled into the brush.  Yet soon she was out having a look.  Holtz was unwelcoming so I had him lie down.  The coyote sat.  Then she dropped herself down to stare.  Our visit was short.  She followed us as we left.  Near the exit, I scared her away.

Previously I would end such an encounter by slowly walking away.  Recently I read that it is better for a coyote if it retains its natural desire to avoid people.  That is why I scared her away today.

I doubt I will see Mom any time soon and can only assume she is still there.  If so, she should be busy with new puppies very soon, that is, if there are to be any puppies from her this year.  Last year, it was Dad who in June brought out and supervised their seven puppies.  I didn’t see Mom until August.  Last year I didn’t see any year old undispersed coyotes.  This year I am curious about how long the two sisters will remain.

Posting written by Charles Wood. Visit Charles Wood’s website for these and more coyote photos:Charles Wood. His work is copyrighted and may only be used with his explicit permission.