Open Space Advisory Board Agenda and Packet 2014 07 09

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(Staff is currently working on approval to use appropriate graphic that represents the futility of lethal control of coyotes). Pet and Coyote Interactions One of the more common reports the City receives is that of pet /coyote interactions. A pet /coyote interaction includes an unattended or attended pet attack. Small domestic dogs and cats are appropriate size prey animals for coyotes and predatory aggression can be natural behaviors for coyotes. Pet attacks are often avoidable. The City recommends that pet owners keep pets on a short (less than six feet long) leash and maintain a watchful eye on smaller pets while outside. Pets that are on longer leashes, or none at all, are seen as more of a threat and more the typical size of a coyotes' prey. Cats and /or small dogs frequently left outside may become attractants for coyotes and can fall victim to attack. Human presence when small pets are outside may greatly reduce pet attacks. Citizens can also refer to "Coyote Management Guidelines for Response" in Appendix B for a brief description of coyote interactions and guidelines for response. Unattended Pet Attack- An unattended pet attack is when a pet is physically contacted, bitten or killed by a coyote while unattended. This includes pets that are on leashes that extend more than 6 feet from the owner. City Response to Unattended Pet Attacks: The City will provide citizens with educational materials if desired and follow up with the citizen regarding the report. The City may also choose to initiate a low- intensity hazing program if necessary (please see "Management Recommendations" section for definition of hazing techniques). Attended Pet Attack- Attended pet attacks are when the pet is on a leash within 6 feet of its owner and is physically contacted, bitten or killed by a coyote. This may include a pet being walked by owner on a six foot leash or pets within six feet of owner. City Response to Attended Pet Attacks: The City will provide citizens and adjacent neighbors with educational materials if desired, follow up with citizen regarding the report, post informational signs in the area, and initiate low intensity hazing if appropriate. If low- intensity hazing is not effective, the City may initiate a high- intensity hazing program (please see "Management Recommendations" section for definition of hazing techniques). If high- intensity hazing is ineffective, the City may contact Colorado Parks and Wildlife regarding possible lethal control of the animal. Coyotes on Private Property Reports of coyote incidents and attacks on private property should be immediately reported to the Police Department. The Police Department will contact Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the City will follow the procedure as identified above for "City Response to Incidents and attacks ". Lethal force may only be used if there is an immediate threat to human safety. Coyote Management Plan 10 17