It’s Coyote Mating Season And Wildlife Officials Urge Precaution For Your Pets

FILE – In this Sunday, Nov. 2, 2003 file photo, a coyote wanders through a neighborhood in Cedar Glen, Calif., in the San Bernardino Mountains. Scientists have long known that human activity disrupts nature. And the latest research released on Thursday, June 14, 2018, found fear of humans has caused many species to increase their nighttime activity by 20 percent. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

As coyote mating season gets underway, wildlife officials are urging pet owners to take extra precautions to protect their dogs and cats. During the mating season, which runs through May, coyotes are searching for dens to raise their offspring. It is during this time they can become more aggressive. The Department of Animal and Rabies Control said studies show cats can be a substantial part of a coyote’s diet. They urge pet owners to keep cats indoors at night and small dogs should be supervised and not left alone in yards.