How to Stay Safe if You Encounter a Coyote

Media
Dec 4
3 min read

A recent coyote attack that injured two children is prompting a coordinated response by the County and partner agencies to ensure public safety.

The incident took place Nov. 25, 2025, near the UTC mall. While coyote attacks like this are rare, they highlight the importance of preventing coyotes from becoming comfortable around people and knowing how to respond if you encounter one.

County Animal Services shares the following tips to help residents safely coexist with coyotes and reduce the risk of aggressive behavior.

How to Stay Safe if You Encounter a Coyote

If you encounter a coyote, one effective technique is called “coyote hazing.” Hazing helps reinforce a natural fear of humans and discourages coyotes from returning to populated areas.

If a coyote approaches you:

Stop and yell at it to go away.
Make yourself look big by waving your arms above your head.
Maintain eye contact.
Stomp your feet and make loud noise.
Always keep a safe distance.

Continue until the coyote leaves the area and is out of sight. If it does not move away, take a few steps forward, stop and repeat the behavior.

If you or someone you know is bitten by a coyote, seek emergency medical care immediately. Rabies post-exposure treatment is not typically available at regular medical offices.

Reduce Attractants Around Your Home

Coyotes often roam into neighborhoods because of things that attract them. This can include leaving pet food or water outside, unsecured trash cans or fallen fruit from trees. Removing these food sources can significantly reduce visits from wildlife.

You can also make your yard less accessible. A “coyote roller” is a humane option that installs on top of a fence. When a coyote tries to climb over, the tube spins and prevents it from gaining traction.

When Should I Call County Animal Services?

The department serves unincorporated areas of San Diego County and provides 24-hour response when animals pose a public safety risk. Residents who live within an incorporated city should contact their local animal services provider for assistance.

The County will respond when:

A wild animal poses an immediate threat to people or other animals
The animal is sick, injured, too young to survive on its own or trapped
A rabies vector species — such as coyotes, raccoons, skunks, bats or foxes — has bitten or attacked a person or pet

While rabies is rare, it is a serious and preventable disease spread through bites, which is why it is important to avoid contact and report aggressive behavior.

The County does not respond to reports of wildlife that are simply roaming or creating general nuisances, such as skunks under a porch or opossums accessing pet food.

Protect Pets and Enjoy Public Spaces Safely

When visiting parks or preserves, always keep dogs on a leash and close to you. If you see a coyote and have a small dog, pick it up immediately. Leaving it on the ground can trigger a chase response. Cats should be kept indoors whenever possible.

According to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, coyotes play an important role in the ecosystem by helping control rodent populations. Learning how to safely coexist is key.

For more information about wildlife safety, visit www.sddac.com or call (619) 767-2675.