Predators
Mountain Lions:
The mountain lion, commonly
known as the cougar, panther or puma is brown in color with black-tipped
ears and tails. It is one of North America's largest cats.
Mountain lions are pretty powerful and usually will hunt alone at night.
They prey upon large animals such as deer, coyotes and raccoons but they
will also go after smaller animals like rabbits, birds and cats. The natural
enemy of the mountain lion is bears, other lions, diseases, car accidents
and people.
Bobcats:
The bobcat (felis rufus) is smaller than a mountain lion but larger than a housecat. It is related to the lynx. It has a short tail and tall ears with short tufts of hair. Bobcats are carnivores and will take prey from ranging from mice to deer. Bobcats are seasonal breeders and mate in late winter and early spring. Their litters range from two to four kittens. They usually den in hollow trees but can hide under porches and decks.
Coyotes:
Besides the raccoon, the coyote
(canis latrans) is probably one of the most adapted animals. Despite passed
efforts to trap and dispose of them, there are more living in southern
California than ever before.
Although coyotes are classified as carnivores, they are true omnivores.
Their diet consists of rabbits and rodents, carrion, birds, and deer and
is supplemented with berries and other plant materials. If allowed they
will prey on domestic pets such as cats.
California Black Bear:
California has a large population of Black Bears (ursus americanus). Black bears are omnivorous. Their typical diet would consist of berries, plants, nuts, roots, honeycombs, bees, insects, fish, small mammals and carrion. Unfortunately bears can become accustomed to people and can be responsible for property damage.
Control and damage Prevention:
- Do not leave pet food outside (including cat food, bird seeds,
garbage ect.)
- Keep garbage in sturdy containers
- Keep compost bins closed
- Keep all pets inside at night and keep livestock secure
- Spay and neuter your dogs. Keep pets current of vaccines
- Make sure fences are more than six feet tall with no gaps at ground
level.
- Install motion-sensitive outdoor lighting around the house
- Keep all shrubbery clear from yard.
- Deer proof your landscape.
What to do if you encounter predators:
- Never hike alone and always stay on trails
- Keep children close to you
- Do not approach the animal
- Do not run from the animal
- Always stand tall, make eye contact and pick up children without
turning your back to the animal
- Do all you can to make yourself bigger. Raise your arms, throw
stones, branches, make noise, wave your arms slowly and speak loud
- If coyotes are in your yard bang pots and pans together or make
other loud noises to scare them away
- Carry an umbrella with you on walks. If encountered by coyotes
open umbrella to scare them away
- Report sightings to authorities immediately
For further information please visit: