Wolf or fat coyote? Picture by Marilyn Krieger

Most of the alleged wolf sightings are not confirmed with photos and videos, but some are. A few people sent me pictures and my trail cameras snapped a series of excellent videos of one of these large canids.

Wolf reports

As it turns out, I’m not the only one who has been contacted about “wolves” roaming the bay area. I checked with Jonathan Young, the wildlife ecologist, at the Presidio Trust in San Francisco who specializes in coyotes and Kent Laudon, the Senior Environmental Scientist, wolf specialist for the California Dept of Fish and Wildlife. Both scientists told me they’ve received reports of sightings of wolves and giant coyotes. Young wrote me that he’s gotten calls and e-mails from locals, claiming that there are wolves and German shepherd sized coyotes in the city that weight at least 100lbs. One San Franciscan wrote him “it was certainly a wolf that I saw, believe me, I have a vacation cabin in Montana, I know wolves.” Despite these reports, Young said that coyotes are surprisingly light-weight. A few years ago he weighed a female who tipped the scale at 34 pounds. Although there aren’t many pictures accompanying the wolf and giant coyote claims, someone in SF posted a picture of one on the Nextdoor social media platform, titling it the Wolf of McLaren Park.

Wolf or fat coyote?—photographer prefers to remain anonymous

Remember the woman on her way home from the board meeting who told me that she saw a wolf disappearing into the canyon? Fortunately, he and his mate trotted by my trail cameras, triggering a series of videos. He looks out of place next to his mate, who is a typical-looking, lanky, leggy coyote. He’s large, solid and kind of fat—she is diminutive in comparison to him. He could easily be mistaken for a large German shepherd or a wolf or a hybrid until you see his face and snout.

People from all over California contact Laudon, claiming they’ve seen wolves. He always checks the reports and has found that 99% of the sightings are not wolves—they’re coyotes or dogs. But, what about the other 1%?

99% of the sightings are not wolves—they’re coyotes or dogs. Picture courtesy of Kent Laudon

Wolves in California

Grey wolves are historically native to California—they lived here until they were hunted to extinction for sport and to control predation. The last known grey wolf in California was trapped and killed in Lassen County in 1924. Lassen County is a long way from San Mateo County. Did wolves live in the bay area? It is believed that they once were here. Based on anecdotal evidence from explorers in the 1800s, wolves inhabited the coastal ranges, the central valley and the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada foothills.

Wolf. Photo by Patrice Schoefolt from Pexels

There hadn’t been wolf sightings in California for almost 100 years. That changed in 2011, when a wolf, fitted with a radio collar and named OR-7 dispersed from his natal pack in northeastern Oregon into our state. He was the first known wolf to venture into California, travelling as far south as Tehama, Shasta, and Butte Counties.

Since 2011 there have been a handful of other wolves who have gone on walkabouts into California, seeking mates, traveling thousands of miles in pursuit of love. A recent and well-publicized traveler was OR-93, he was the first wolf in 200 years to be seen as far south as San Luis Obispo and Ventura Counties. His impressive 1,000 mile journey ended tragically on November 10, 2021, when he was killed by a car on Interstate Highway 5.

OR-93 traveled down to the central coast. Photo courtesy of Kent Laudon, California Fish & Wildlife

Although wolves are gradually dispersing back into California, they have not made it to the Bay Area and they probably won’t. According to Laudon, they are forced to make a hard stop at the highways, notably I5 and I80.

Hybrids? Wolves or Fat Coyotes?

Is it possible that our local, oversized, super coyotes are hybrids? Did over-amorous dogs and coyotes have liaisons? Laudon says that there is no DNA evidence of hybridization occurring in the West between dogs and coyotes or between wolves and coyotes. Additionally, wolf and coyote encounters do not bode well for coyotes. Wolves do not tolerate coyotes—they kill them. It’s in the best interests of coyotes to avoid wolves¹.

Fat coyotes in winter coats

Wolves, coydogs or coywolves have not moved into the neighborhoods. The huskier, solid-looking canids that people are seeing are our familiar coyotes—they are well nourished and have grown thick insulating winter coats. One theory about why our coyotes are looking larger than their usual svelte, lean selves could be weather/temperature related. California has been in a drought for years. Until this winter, the coyotes that cruise the neighborhoods have been lank and leggy. It’s been a long time since coyotes have been seen with thick winter coats. This year is different—California has been drenched with rain and it’s cold. Laudon also thinks that there’s a psychological component to the sightings, that people wanting to see wolves, mis-identify the well-padded coyotes as wolves.

Local coyotes have become accustomed to sharing the neighborhoods with humans. Although they typically avoid people, they are sometimes spotted during the day, trotting down the street, looking for food and mates. It is easy for them to find nourishing food in our urban and suburban environments. Coyotes are efficient ratters, but being opportunistic eaters, they also eat garbage, fruit, dog food, cat food and unfortunately, they can target dogs and cats². It’s common to see coyotes in the neighborhoods—most look well nourished and they’re sporting thick, insulating winter coats³.

1. It’s a different story for the eastern coyote. Javier Monzon, an evolutionary biologist analyzed the DNA of 437 eastern coyotes and found that 64% of the eastern coyote’s genome is coyote (Canis latrans), 13% gray wolf (Canis lupus), 13% Eastern wolf (Canis lycaon), and 10% dog (Canis familiaris).
2. Living on the on the wildland-urban interface in the Bay Area means that residents need to expect that coyotes and other native wildlife will periodically be seen in our neighborhoods. Take proper measures to protect your pets and hobby animals. Keep your pets safe indoors. When walking dogs, walk them on a leash. Cats should not be allowed outside—the exceptions are enclosures and catios.
3. Thank you Zara McDonald for fact checking and proofing. Thank you Kent Laudon and Jonathan Young for answering my incessant questions and for fact checking. 

Marilyn is a certified cat behavior consultant (The Cat Coach, LLC) and author Not surprisingly, she’s fascinated by feline behaviors. This started with household cats and then after witnessing a puma being killed a few blocks from her home in the suburbs, expanded to include local mountain lions and bobcats. A few years after the tragedy, she joined the Bay Area Puma Project/Felidae Conservation Fund, maintaining trail cameras, writing and helping wherever she can. Her focus is on how urbanization is affecting apex predators’ behaviors.

Join Marilyn for lively discussions about all things feline on her Facebook page: The Cat Coach.

The post Wolves or Fat Coyotes? appeared first on Urban Edge Wildlife.

Two mature males fighting–it’s rutting season

During the months of September, October and November, the cameras recorded enough wildlife activity to see the effects that natural and manmade events have on the canyon eco-system. Devastating wildfires, drought, dogs running through sensitive and vulnerable habitats, poisons, apex predator changes and the season greatly impacted all the canyon residents.

Mountain lion

Mountain lions aren’t new visitors to the canyon. The cameras have filmed puma activity here since they were set up three years ago. Until recently, pumas were recorded walking the trails and occasionally marking about every three months. The canyon has probably always attracted them because of the abundance of their favorite food—deer.

The first mountain lion I wrote about was “Slim”, she died after she ingested second-generation rodenticide. After her death, other lions occasionally ventured into the canyon. That changed in August when the devastating wildfires drove the animals to seek safety from the deadly smoke and flames. Many found sanctuary in the canyon and by necessity, had to share the 90 acres with the already established residents. Last August, one male puma found the canyon an ideal spot to hang out for a few months—there was an abundance of deer as well as places to shelter. Since 90 acres is too small of an area for a mountain lion, he’d travel outside the canyon into the neighborhood late nights and early mornings. On November 25th, his regular appearances stopped.

I received a text late on Thanksgiving evening. It was a short text, stating that there was a dead mountain lion on Interstate 280, not too far from the canyon. We searched the freeway for hours without finding the carcass.  At first light the next day, I continued the search, walking the area, looking in the underbrush, but with no luck. It’s possible that the body was picked up by CalTrans the day before. Sadly, since Thanksgiving, none of my trail cams or the neighborhood security cameras have filmed the canyon mountain lion on his usual patrols. Although, I’m holding out hope that I’ll see him again, the odds are that his life was prematurely cut short on Thanksgiving Eve. Tragically many of our beautiful mountain lions along with other extraordinary wild animals lose their lives on the highways.

Bobcats

The trail cameras are usually packed with videos featuring bobcats. I’ve learned to recognize individuals from the unique patterns of spots on their legs. Earlier this year, a young resident female, who was born in 2018, had three kittens. This may have been her first litter, only one kitten survived. The other two may have fallen victim to other predators, vehicles or second-generation rodenticides. Kittens are vulnerable.

Bobcats, like most felids, live alone, hobnobbing with other bobs in only a few circumstances. Not surprisingly, when females are in estrus they hang out with the future fathers of their kittens. Bobcat moms have difficult jobs. They must keep their kittens safe, provide food for them as well as teach them important survival skills necessary for living in a dangerous world. It’s hard work and the mums have to do it alone. The little families usually stay together about 9-12 months, then the adolescents disperse, leaving mum’s protection to look for their own territories. Often when kittens disperse, siblings stick together for awhile, than finally go their separate ways.

The resident bobcat in the following video knows she’s not alone. Check out how she is walking and glancing to the left. Look at her tail, especially when she starts to crouch down. At the end of the video there is a second bobcat that appears at the upper left of the screen. I’m fairly certain that this is an admirer.

Deer dramas

The canyon has always been full of deer –there is an abundance of vegetation to munch on as well as a creek to drink from. Although the deer attract coyotes and mountain lions, it’s worth the risk for food.

Fall is usually a dramatic time for deer, especially for mature males. It’s rutting season; bucks have an increase in testosterone and the does may come into estrus. Mature males are amorous and challenge other competing males for the affections of the does. One of the cameras was in the right place at the right moment and filmed a violent encounter between two bucks and boy did they get into a rumble. It’s rare to catch such extraordinary action.

Bucks don’t fool around—these are violent fights that often result in injuries that can end in death. One of the bucks sustained a serious injury to his side. I hope he survives.

Disappearance of Coyote 09M and his pack

The presence as well as the absence of apex predators influences all of the resident and transient wildlife. It’s not a coincidence that when the canyon cams repeatedly film mountain lions, they don’t film coyotes. Most likely, not wanting to confront a puma, the coyotes moved outside the 90 acres favoring a safer, open space. Soon after the male puma started favoring the canyon, Coyote 09M, his mate and puppies disappeared. I hope they are safe.

Although 09M has not been seen, we filmed a fascinating sequence of a coyote hunting an underground rodent not too far from the canyon. Coyotes are amazing. Their hearing is so acute they can hear rodents scampering and squeaking in their tunnels deep underground. The first video shows the coyote hearing the rodents—note how he turns his head to listen.

After the coyote is certain that there is a possible meal under his feet he starts digging. The whole sequence is about three minutes long. Hunts aren’t always successful—he didn’t catch a rodent this time.

More wildlife in the canyon

Since 09M and his pack have moved out of the canyon, other animals are either moving in or feeling bold and venturing out more. Foxes are now running up the trail almost every night. Check out that tail!

There is always an abundance of squirrels, but this poor squirrel is furless. He might be suffering with notoedric mange or inflicted with a genetic condition or perhaps he has a fungal infection. He seems to have fur only on his tail. We also have videos of a squirrel with fur on his body but not on his tail.

Thank the Dusky-footed Woodrat for the preservation of the canyon. Because of them, there can be no development here. These precious animals are listed as a California Subspecies of Special Concern. And, they really are special. After 09M claimed the canyon they were rarely seen. Although bobcats and foxes also dine on them, since the coyotes have vacated the canyon, the woodrats are frequently being filmed.

The cameras show how busy this little canyon is. Every day people walk and jog on the narrow trail that follows the creek through the center of the canyon. Although they enjoy spending time in this small natural space, most of the people are unaware of the rich drama that is continually unfolding around them—how can they know? The wildlife in the canyon instinctually adjusts schedules and routes in order to avoid humans. Because of the images from the cameras we can see some of the dramas and the impact of natural and human-made events on the sensitive eco-system.

Marilyn is a certified cat behavior consultant (The Cat Coach, LLC). Not surprisingly, she’s fascinated by feline behaviors. This started with household cats and then after witnessing a puma being killed a few blocks from her home in the suburbs, expanded to include local mountain lions and bobcats. A few years after the tragedy, she joined the Bay Area Puma Project/Felidae Conservation Fund, maintaining trail cameras, writing and helping wherever she can, while learning how urbanization is affecting the apex predators’ behaviors.

She is also an author and educator. Her book Naughty No More! focuses on solving cat behavior issues through clicker training, environmental changes as well as other positive reinforcement techniques. She gives presentations throughout the United States as well as writes columns and articles for a variety of venues. She is also frequently interviewed for print and on line publications. Additionally Marilyn is a frequent guest on television and radio and has appeared, along with her Bengals and Savannah Cat on Animal Planet, CBS, ABC, KGO and others.

Join Marilyn for lively discussions about all things feline on her Facebook page.

The post A Snapshot of Wildlife in the Canyon: Fall of 2020 appeared first on Urban Edge Wildlife.

Coyote 09M is easily recognized by his red ear tags.

Despite having a high mortality rate, coyotes can survive in just about any environment. The secret to their success is their high intelligence, the ability to quickly adjust to situations and being opportunistic omnivores. Some individuals seldom make public appearances while others are bold, cruising busy, populated streets looking for food. 09M, our resident coyote is not an exception. Since he made the canyon his home, he’s been shy, never making public appearances, carefully avoiding people. His MO changed in the last month.

News about Coyote 09M’s natal family

Coyote 09M is a survivor. Around 3 years ago he was born in The Presidio in San Francisco, and along with his siblings and mom was tagged and fitted with a GPS collar. He quickly learned the skills necessary for living in an urban environment and traveled 35 miles down the peninsula without becoming a vehicular victim. He crossed busy roads and highways and finally settled in my favorite little canyon where he’s thrived for almost two years.

He is now the only confirmed surviving member of his natal coyote family. Last summer, there was an unconfirmed sighting of 10F, his sister, in the southeast sector of the city. His dad was killed in July of 2019 and sadly, last week his mum was found in Pacifica, a town on the coast. She was forced from The Presidio because another female coyote challenged and won her home territory. Sadly she didn’t have the same car smarts her son has.

There was an unconfirmed sighting of 10F, Coyote 09M’s sister

Coyote 09M is not alone

09M is thriving in the canyon—although it’s only 93 acres, there’s plenty of food, water and cover. And, he’s now in a committed relationship with a lovely, healthy female coyote. Coyotes mate for life, forming cooperative partnerships. We have tons of footage of 09M and his mate hunting, eating, playing and loving together. Based on the videos, they’ve had at least one litter of pups.

Recent encounter with people

09M usually maintains a cloak of invisibility on the trail. Until recently, he was seldom seen. I have been fortunate to occasionally catch a fleeting glimpse of him as he blends into the brush. The neighbors who live at the rim of the canyon and the staff at the nearby school sometimes hear him and his mate vocalizing. Once he followed me on my weekly camera checks. Although I didn’t see him, the cams recorded him sniffing the cameras and urinating next to them a minute or so after I checked them.

There’s been a recent change in 09M’s behavior. I hope it’s temporary. People have seen him during the day. One family’s accidental meeting with 09M is caught on camera. I’m not sure what prompted the change in his behavior. Perhaps his mate is in estrus. Another possibility is that he’s guarding a deer carcass. Two leashed dogs who accompanied the family may have also contributed to 09M’s behavior—perhaps he saw them as competition for the remains of the carcass.

The camera filmed the whole thing. Turn up the sound on your device. The camera is focused on 09M standing in the middle of the trail when the family spots him. They yelled and made a loud ruckus to scare him. 09M is seen licking his muzzle, indicating stress. He jumps away, runs up the trail and then down the bank. The walkers did everything right—it’s vital that coyotes remain fearful of people

Keep Coyote 09M and his relatives wild

Coyote 09M isn’t the only coyote who has a bold streak. Neighborhood on-line groups post sightings of urban coyotes every day. Although they are important for keeping rats in check, they should be discouraged from coming close to people and domestic animals.  If you happen to see Coyote 09M, easily identified by one red ear plug, or you see his relatives, scare them away. Scream, yell, jump and make a loud ruckus so they keep their distance. It’s also mandatory that when enjoying our open spaces that dogs are always kept leashed. Don’t let them run free in the wild places and open spaces. In addition to keeping dogs safe, it helps keep the other wild residents safe and the environment clean. Never encourage coyotes to hang around—clean up the garbage, pick up the pet food. Keep them wild—it’s for their safety.

Marilyn Krieger, CCBC, The Cat Coach and author of Naughty No More! helps solve cat behavior challenges nationally and internationally through on site and remote consultations. Her fascination with cat behaviors began with household cats and quickly expanded to wild felids.

Marilyn enjoys educating people about cat behavior. She gives presentations throughout the United States as well as writes columns and articles for a variety of venues. Additionally Marilyn is a frequent guest on television and radio. She has appeared, along with her Bengals and Savannah Cat on Animal Planet, CBS,  ABC, KGO and others.

Join Marilyn for lively discussions about all things felid on her Facebook page

The post The Latest News about Coyote 09M appeared first on Urban Edge Wildlife.

The wildlife in the little canyon, like in other open spaces that are squeezed in by urbanization, must adapt and adjust to shrinking habitats that are increasingly fragmented by highways and buildings.

Predators, being territorial, need lots of open, wild acreage to live and hunt in. Additionally, some predators, such as mountain lions live solitary lives and in most circumstances don’t tolerate other lions. It’s a challenge for apex predators to navigate the dwindling open areas without encountering each other.

Bobcat on the trail

Canyon changes

At the rim of the canyon, trees are being cleared from the building sites while large equipment removes earth and pours foundations for future homes. Although the county has mandated the canyon below remains wild, the noise and chaos along with a slight reduction in acreage, is impacting the wild residents. Although the canyon still provides the animals sustenance and shelter, their routes have changed along with the times they use the shared trails.

Sharing the space

Marking is an essential way that predators, including bobcats, pumas, foxes and coyotes share the shrinking landscape. Animals distribute their pheromones/scent through urinating, defecating, rubbing and scratching objects and the ground. Through marking, individuals are identified along with their territories, state of health, age and when they passed by. Wild animals also mark to advertise for mates.

Marking helps territorial predators safely avoid each other in dwindling habitats. Perhaps marking increases with the decrease of space, enabling predators to successfully share the wild without potentially dangerous encounters.

Foxes are notorious for marking with feces in the middle of trails. The last couple of months the cameras have recorded this fox, along with it’s mate, cruising through the canyon—stopping periodically in the middle of the trail and pooping.

A few hours after the fox left his calling card, a resident coyote trotted up the trail, ran by the feces, hesitated, turned around, checked it out and then urinated on top of it, leaving his scent. Although marking is a typical behavior, predators may be engaging in more of it as they adapt to living in shrinking habitats.

Intriguing scents

Specific smells attract animals. The original “Obsession for Men” had the reputation of being alluring to felines. Lions, bobcats, jags and other felids would rub and mark areas that were saturated with it. There was a good reason for their obsessions with Obsession. The original fragrance contained civet musk scent, harvested from the anal glands of civet cats. The fragrance currently is formulated with a synthetic version of the scent and civets are no longer abused for the pheromone. The downside is that the new version of the perfume isn’t as intriguing to felids. I experimented and sprayed the stinky stuff on a couple of areas that are popular with our resident felids and canids. They all walked by without a glance or a sniff. The only reaction to the perfume was from a little boy who wrinkled his nose and wanted to know what the cloying smell was.

Pumpkin pie spice proved to be more lucrative. I sprinkled two different types of the spice on the trail. An adolescent coyote and a few deer were especially intrigued by the scent. Although last year the bobcats showed an interest, this year the cameras didn’t film them reacting to it.

An adolescent coyote was curious. He spent about 5 minutes investigating the spice.

Does were also drawn to the pumpkin pie spice. Although the cameras recorded mature bucks walking past the spiced up spots, none stopped to check it out.

Living in the hood

Novembers’ highlights wouldn’t be complete without videos of a some of the permanent residents.

Coyote 09M

Coyotes, being versatile, easily adapt to living near people, in some situations they thrive. The construction hasn’t put too much of a dent in the lives of 09M and his mate. They continue to hunt and patrol the canyon, with one visible change. 09M now only has one ear tag. It’s not known how he lost the other one. It may have been pulled out in a fight with another animal or by playing rough with his mate or perhaps he snagged it on something sharp like barbed wire or a branch.

Something has caught 09M’s attention. He held this position for three minutes before continuing up the trail.

Bobcats

The canyon’s resident bobcats consistently use the same trails for creek crossings. It’s easy to recognize individuals because the shapes and placement of their spots are unique to each cat.

It’s hard to tell what the evening catch is. It looks like a weasel or a ferret. The bobcats have been filmed occasionally catching and dining on them. It’s a mystery why this one wasn’t eaten.

Mature buck

This boy has been hanging out in the canyon for more than a year—he has an impressive set of antlers.

Banana slug sighting

The month wouldn’t be complete without a special tribute to California’s unofficial state mollusk—the banana slug. They have a tendency to show themselves during the winter months, sometimes hanging out in groups. It’s impossible to catch them on video because they move so slow…

Banana slug–California’s unofficial state mollusk

Marilyn Krieger, CCBC (The Cat Coach, LLC®) and author of Naughty No More! helps solve cat behavior challenges nationally and internationally through on site and remote consultations.

Her fascination with cat behaviors began with household cats and quickly expanded to wild felids.

Marilyn enjoys educating people about cat behavior. She gives presentations throughout the United States as well as writes columns and articles for a variety of venues. Additionally Marilyn is a frequent guest on television and radio. She has appeared, along with her Bengals and Savannah Cat on Animal Planet, CBS,  ABC, KGO and others.

Join Marilyn for lively discussions about cats, wild and domestic, on her Facebook page

The post November Highlights: Animals Adjust to Shrinking Habitats appeared first on Urban Edge Wildlife.

Despite the canyon being only 93 acres, hemmed in by homes and roads, it’s a complete eco-system where plants and animals are interdependent. The death of one organism means many others will live. The lesson hit home a couple of weeks ago when a small deer was killed by a predator. For 2 weeks, we aimed a trail camera at the carcass to see who benefited from the kill.  Although sad, the deer helped sustain life in the canyon, feeding a variety of wildlife including coyotes, vultures, crows and others.

The carcass provided meals for many hungry animals, including stunning vultures, crows and other raptors. Check out the impressive wings on this vulture—beautiful bird.

Most likely, Coyote 09M and his mate killed the deer. They frequently showed up over a span of 10 days to eat. Although sad, the doe’s death was not in vain.

Humor and frustration on the trail

There were also some light hearted moments in the canyon this month—mostly provided by the deer.

One of the resident bucks is dressed for the season—the first thing that caught my attention was his looking through the hole in the leaf that covered his eye. In addition to this plant bedecked boy, the cameras caught another buck with moss stuck between his antlers. Although I don’t know a lot about the amorous activities of deer, I know it’s rutting season. I’m guessing that he’s a bit frustrated and may be venting by slamming into vegetation. This video was filmed after he was rebuffed by a doe he was relentlessly pursuing.  Or, perhaps he’s using the local vegetation to scratch off the itchy velvet on his horns.

Buck #2 with moss on his head.

Taking a rest—right in front of the camera.

Wildlife highlights: deer ears

Check out these ears.

Wildlife highlights: deer nose

This post wouldn’t be complete without an ungulate’s nose.

The usual cast of characters

There are other wildlife highlights this month that are worth mentioning.

Coyote 09M and mate

09M and his mate are stunning. If it wasn’t for the shape of 09M’s mate’s snout and her tail, it’s easy to see how at first glance, she might be mistaken for a German Shepherd Dog. Someone recently posted on a neighborhood list about a loose GSD. I wonder if this is who she saw.

Foxes

What a treat—two foxes! The cams, rarely filming them in the canyon, recorded them 6 times in the last 2 weeks. Typically, foxes avoid areas where there are coyotes. I don’t think it’s a coincidence that the last couple of weeks the coyotes haven’t been caught by the main cameras. They’ve been hanging out near the carcass and in an area where there is an abundance of rabbits.

Bobcats

Is she pregnant or maybe she just had a full meal?

A highly photogenic bobcat.

The first few weeks of October were full of wildlife highlights worthy of posting. I hope that the last week will be as active. After checking the cameras, I left special Halloween non-food enrichment presents for the animals to find.

Marilyn Krieger, Certified Cat Behavior Consultant (The Cat Coach, LLC® ) and author of Naughty No More! helps solve cat behavior challenges nationally and internationally through on site and remote consultations. Her fascination with cat behaviors began with household cats and quickly expanded to include wild felids.

Marilyn enjoys educating people about cat behavior. She gives presentations throughout the United States as well as writes columns and articles for a variety of venues. Additionally Marilyn is a frequent guest on television and radio. She has appeared, along with her Bengals and Savannah Cat on Animal Planet, CBS,  ABC, KGO and others.

Join Marilyn for lively discussions about all things felid on her Facebook page

The post Wildlife Highlights from the Canyon appeared first on Urban Edge Wildlife.

Video courtesy of Felidae Conservation Fund.

There’s an amazing coyote I want you to know about. Meet 09M, a coyote success story. At 2 ½ years old, he’s beaten the odds—he’s survived.  09M is smarter than most coyotes because he’s avoided being killed while crossing dangerous highways and he’s managed to side step injuries and death from predators, diseases and poisons. We know Coyote 09M’s personal story and have followed him because he was collared and tagged with large, red ear tags when he was a pup. His perilous journey has taken him 35 miles from where he was born to my favorite canyon where he’s found a companion.

Coyotes are vilified

Coyote 09M and his relatives are misunderstood. He, along with his coyote kin are the most persecuted predator in the United States. Their bad reputations are due to a few questionable menu choices in their highly, diverse diets. I empathize with pet lovers and ranchers whose household pets and livestock fall prey to coyotes. Despite the bad press, coyotes have many admirable characteristics. They’re smart, extremely adaptable, social and cooperative and they’re excellent parents.

Tagged and Collared

09M traveled a long way before reaching the relative safety of the canyon. He’s a city coyote, born in San Francisco. When he was around six months old, The Presidio Trust tagged and collared him along with three of his siblings and his mum. His dad was cautious and human aware—too smart to be caught. The Presidio Trust tracked the journeys of 09M and his siblings. After one year the tracking collar batteries failed and the collars fell off, leaving only colorful ear tags for identification. The three siblings went on their individual journeys and traveled remarkable distances. Currently, we only know for sure that 09M is alive.

Coyote 09M’s parents. Photo courtesy of The Presidio Trust

Coyotes have a high mortality rate

50-70% of urban coyote pups don’t make it through their first year—cars, predators and poisons take their toll. After that vulnerable first year, they have a 30-40% chance of dying every year. ¹ Unfortunately, 09M’s siblings didn’t disprove the statistics. 08M became a vehicle casualty. His body was found on Highway 101 in January 2019. His sister, 10F, recognizable by her fashionable yellow ear tags, went off radar on the south-east side of the city. Watch for her! Let The Presidio Trust know if you see a coyote with large, circular yellow tags in her ears. We would be overjoyed if, like 09M, she’s found a mate and a place to settle.

Coyote 10F, 09M’s sister. Photo courtesy of The Presidio Trust

Coyotes are survivalists

Despite high mortality rates, coyotes are a successful species, thriving in a variety of environments. The secret to their success lies in their ability to adjust to novel situations, being foodie opportunists and highly intelligent. They live in rural, suburban as well as urban environments and they are flexible eaters, enjoying a wide range of food.

Although they’re predators, coyotes are omnivores. They’re not picky. They relish rodents as well as garbage. Although rats, voles, mice and rabbits are high up on the list of favorite cuisine, coyotes also munch with gusto on veggies and fruit. When available, venison is also on the menu, but since deer are formidable opponents, coyotes hunt them cooperatively with other family members. Unfortunately, coyotes don’t limit their carnivorous tastes to rodents and venison. They’re opportunistic eaters—when presented the chance they will eat household pets and livestock who are relatively easy to catch.

Nomadic life

Many coyotes leave their natal families before their first birthday² . Others stick around awhile longer, helping with their parent’s new litters. 10F, 09M’s sister was frequently filmed at the den site, babysitting the new pups. Since 09M left his family when he was seventeen months old, he might also have had babysitting duties.

09M lived the nomadic life when he dispersed, traveling far from where he was born.  According to his GPS tracking collar, he visited my neighborhood late last year—a journey which took him 35 miles south of the city. After my concerned neighbors caught glimpses of him, they flooded in-boxes with e-mails and alerts about him. Hopefully, his brief visit to the hood was accompanied by a sharp decrease in the rat population.

Coyote 09M’s journey. Courtesy of The Presidio Trust

09M traveled alone for months, until he recently settled in my favorite canyon—a relatively safe place with water, cover and diverse food sources. Based on recent footage from the wildlife cameras, he now has a companion.

Family and social life

Coyotes are known to be monogamous, hanging with the same mate for years, often for their whole life. And, they are family-centric. The survival of the young ones depends on both parents caring for them. Mom nurses the pups while dad hunts and brings them food. 09M and his mate may soon be parents.

Coyote 09M when he was a pup, courtesy of The Presidio Trust

Coyotes are territorial

He wasn’t the first coyote to settle down in the canyon. There used to be another bonded pair who lived there before 09M claimed it. Our cameras filmed them for a year until they disappeared a couple of weeks before 09M showed up. It’s a mystery we will probably never solve.

His territory, fragmented by roads, highways, buildings and other trappings of civilization is tiny compared to his rural cousins. Because so much food is available, he, like other urban edge coyotes don’t need large territories.

Portrait of Coyote 09M when he was a pup, courtesy of The Presidio Trust

Coyotes are our neighbors

Urban edge coyotes are heavily influenced by the proximity of humans. Schedules, food, and territory sizes and locations revolve around people. Although coyotes live in the urban green zones, they prefer not to encounter people. When human activity slows down or stops, coyotes are out and about. Instead of hunting at dusk like their rural cousins do, city coyotes shift their meal schedules to late nights and early mornings when people sleep. These are also times when there are fewer cars to dodge. 09M is no exception. Although our cameras have filmed him at all hours, he’s wary of humans and vehicles. He’s quick to run at the slightest indication of a person lumbering down the trail and he skirts around busy roads.

09M is smarter than most coyotes. He has street smarts, successfully crossing the road that borders the canyon. He chooses wisely, making the dangerous crossing when there are no cars in sight or within ear shot. Our cameras have caught him hesitating, making false starts and then finally darting across. Coyotes who don’t have street smarts don’t live long.

Keep safe around coyotes

Don’t be surprised if while walking or jogging around the neighborhood you see a coyote. You might even be privileged to catch a glimpse of 09M and his companion as they patrol their territory. Don’t be alarmed, but at the same time be safe. If a coyote approaches, stand tall, yell, scare him/her away—don’t run away. And although pups are adorable and look approachable, don’t!  If you see them, keep a healthy distance, the parents are probably close by.

Pet lovers can keep their household animals from becoming part of a coyotes’ diet by keeping pets indoors, walking dogs on leashes, not leaving pet food outside, refraining from night time walks and being alert for coyotes as well as avoiding den sites. Coyote parents are understandably protective of their pups and may aggressively chase dogs away.

Coyote 09M and companion

Although, they are an important part of the eco-system and are efficient at reducing the rat population coyotes shouldn’t be encouraged to stay around homes. Never leave food out for them or other animals—they will learn to view people as meal tickets. Appreciate 09M and his cousins from afar and keep them wild—it’s for their own safety. Friendly coyotes don’t survive long around people.

¹ Cartaino, Carol. Myths & Truths about Coyotes. Pg. 175

²Young. dispersing coyotes are called transients and nomads.

Here are some of my sources:

The Presidio Project

Project Coyote

Flores, Coyote America

Long term bonding and monogamy urban coyotes

Environmental factors  influencing occurrence of conflicts coyotes in urban areas

For more information:

Urban Coyote Initiative

Coyote Smarts

Join Marilyn for lively discussions about all things feline on her Facebook page.

Marilyn is a certified cat behavior consultant. Not surprisingly, she’s fascinated by feline behaviors. The fascination started with household cats and then after witnessing a puma being killed a few blocks from her home in the suburbs, expanded to include local mountain lions and bobcats. A few years after the tragedy, she joined the Bay Area Puma Project/Felidae Conservation Fund, maintaining trail cameras, writing and helping wherever she can, while learning how urbanization is affecting the apex predators’ behaviors.

She is also an author and educator. Her book Naughty No More! focuses on solving cat behavior issues through clicker training, environmental changes as well as other positive reinforcement techniques. She gives presentations throughout the United States as well as writes columns and articles for a variety of venues. She is also frequently interviewed for print and on line publications. Additionally Marilyn is a frequent guest on television and radio and has appeared, along with her Bengals and Savannah Cat on Animal Planet, CBS, ABC, KGO and others.

The post City Coyote Moves to the Suburbs appeared first on Urban Edge Wildlife.

Etching by Nicholas Collins

Rat poisons kill more than rats

Rodenticides are designed to attract animals—they’re not selective. In addition to rats, pets and wildlife sometimes sample the bait because it smells and tastes good. Sadly, all the animals who ingest it become victims of the primary poisoning—none are exempt.

In addition to killing the targeted rodents, second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides also kills non-targeted wildlife.  Because they kill slowly, rodents keep eating them even after they’ve ingested a lethal dose. When they do die or are close to dying they have many times the fatal dose in their systems. After ingesting the poisons, rodents typically wander off to other areas to die, where they are easily caught and eaten by predators, scavengers and other animals.

Rat poisons travel up the food chain, compromising immune systems and eventually killing those who eat the poisoned animals. California Fish and Wildlife recently released a study where they found high concentrations of second-generation rat poisons in bobcats, mountain lions, coyotes, foxes, skunks, fishers, hawks, crows and owls. The study documented second-generation anticoagulant rat poisons in more than 90 percent of the mountain lions and 88 percent of bobcats that were tested.

Anticoagulent rodenticides travel up the food chain. Diagram created by Christine Danner for Urban Carnivores

More than wildlife is killed by second-generation rat poisons. Sometimes rats seek shelter in yards and gardens within reach of household pets.

Rat poisons in the special canyon

In the middle of San Mateo there’s a special 93-acre canyon—a wildlife corridor where a diversity of animals, including coyotes, bobcats, an occasional mountain lion, raptors, deer, woodrats and other prey animals live, hunt and patrol.

Rodenticides are taking their toll on the wildlife in the canyon. We’ve recently found dead squirrels and moles in the same location within a three-week period —we’re presuming they ingested poisoned bait that may have been placed next to a nearby building.  Secondary poison has also affected the canyon predators. In 2018 a female mountain lion regularly patrolled the canyon. It was heartbreaking when she was filmed gradually deteriorating, losing fur and becoming thin. This is the last video we have of her; a few months later she died. A necropsy performed by California Fish & Wildlife found she was malnourished and riddled with sarcoptic mange—both are classic signs of secondary poisoning from rodenticides. Most likely, other wildlife in the canyon are also adversely affected by rat poisons.

California regulations in a nut shell

In 2014, the California Department of Pesticide Regulations (DPR), a division of the California Environmental Protection Agency (Cal/EPA), prohibited residential consumers from buying rodenticides that contain four of the active ingredients that can cause secondary poisonings¹. They weren’t banned entirely. Certified/licensed professionals are allowed to use them and, even though they are prohibited from being sold to consumers, some homeowners have found creative ways to obtain them. Additionally, consumers can buy poisons that contain first generation ingredients. Clearly, the 2014 law doesn’t go far enough. 4 years later, the reported rates of accidental wildlife exposure to these rodenticides doesn’t seem to have decreased.

The DPR, aware of the problem, is addressing it. A spokesperson for the DPR told me they’ve formally started a process that re-evaluates pesticides. According to the spokesperson, the new process “forces the manufacturers to provide the DPR with data related to second generation anticoagulant rodenticide exposure rates, as well as any resulting risk of adverse impacts to non-target wildlife. It could ultimately mean more restrictions on these pesticides.” The DPR also believes that there should be a variety of other options, besides poisons available.

Alternatives to rat poisons

Although common rats don’t win popularity contests, killing them with super-toxic rat poisons is over-kill.  There are other, effective ways to eliminate rats from the hood without poisoning animals further up the food chain.

One immediate way of discouraging rats from hanging out is to remove what attracts them. Pick up trash, shut and secure the lids of garbage cans and dumpsters and don’t leave food around. Don’t free feed pets outside—dog and cat food provides a smorgasbord for rats. Also, pick up pet feces. Wretched as it sounds, rats gravitate to feces. A little yard maintenance will go a long way: sweep up bird seed, pick up fallen fruit and clear away dead shrubbery from gardens.

Rat proofing will keep the unwanted guests outside. Place screens on open pipes, vents and seal up holes that might double as rat by-ways into buildings. A little preventative action can make a big difference. For in-depth information, check out how to rodent-proof your home.

Pick up trash, shut and secure the lids of garbage cans and dumpsters.

Don’t forget natural predators. They are highly skilled at thinning out rat populations. Rodents are primary menu choices for coyotes, bobcats and raptors (please keep your pets safe inside, especially at night). Depending on property locations, one solution may be to encourage raptors to cull local rodents by installing nesting boxes and perches. The Hungry Owl Project, a non-profit organization, sells nesting boxes for owls, kestrels and other birds. They also have plans available for building them.  Another great resource is Raptors are the Solution 

Non-toxic products when used with other safe approaches might also help repel rats. They contain plant-based products such as castrol oil and mint oil. Rats don’t like them and will avoid areas where they’re used. Attics and basements are popular spots to apply them.

Only when these solutions aren’t working consider humane traps² that kill instantly. These traps should be used only where other animals can’t reach them. Don’t use glue traps, they are inhumane—deaths are long and painful. Additionally, never use live traps. Your neighbors don’t want the rats either and releasing them in open space preserves can create an ecological imbalance and may introduce diseases that are fatal to the native animals.

We are fortunate to live in an area where there are nearby natural habitats. These are fragile ecosystems where many animals who live in them are the unintended victims of poisons.  In order to protect the wildlife that lives in the wild places we need to look at the whole ecosystem and see how our actions, including using poisons, impact the environment. It’s up to us to be responsible, use alternative solutions and refrain from using poisons, especially those that travel up the food chain.

For more information:

The Hungry Owl Project
Raptors are the Solution
Urban Carnivores
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
National Pesticide Information Center
Rodenticides Topic Fact Sheet

¹ In 2008, the EPA declared that second-generation rodenticides containing brodifacoum, bromadiolone, difethialone, and difenacoum posed an “unreasonable risk” to children, pets, and wildlife, and gave manufacturers 3 years to cease selling directly to residential consumers. But it left a gaping loophole by exempting large-quantity sales (such as farmers) and tamper-proof bait boxes used by exterminators. Predators, scavengers, and pets are no less poisoned if they eat rodents that consume bait from sealed boxes or bait set out by farmers—Zara McDonald, President, Felidae Conservation Fund.

² Other safe alternatives include single- and multiple-entrance snap traps and electrocuting traps.

Marilyn Krieger, CCBC, The Cat Coach, LLC® and author of Naughty No More! helps solve cat behavior challenges nationally and internationally through on site and remote consultations.

Marilyn enjoys educating people about cat behavior. She gives presentations throughout the United States as well as writes columns and articles for a variety of venues. Additionally Marilyn is a frequent guest on television and radio. She has appeared, along with her Bengals and Savannah Cat on Animal Planet, CBS,  ABC, KGO and others.

Join Marilyn for lively discussions on her Facebook page

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It’s not always in the best interests for predators to have unintended encounters with other predators. Meetings can end badly with individuals being hurt and sometimes killed. Predators need ways to define territories, identify family members as well as advertise for mates. And, these communication systems have to work remotely. The messages need to be clear for minutes, hours, sometimes days after being strategically placed.

Sharing a limited area

The little canyon is only 93 acres. Houses at the rim and two busy roads surround the wild area. One of the roads separates the canyon from an expansive, natural habitat that is enclosed by fences. Although predators and ungulates make regular forays back and forth across the road, wildlife has to adjust their behaviors in order to share the limited area in the canyon.

Predators communicate through scent marking

Scent marking is an effective form of communication, broadcasting a variety of messages including when individuals patrol the trail. It helps predators, including bobcats, coyotes and an occasional mountain lion, time share the path with a minimum of unplanned encounters. They mark by spraying, urinating, defecating and scraping in prominent spots. In addition to excrement, felids distribute their scent by scratching objects, face rubbing and head butting.

Scent marking is similar to leaving time-stamped calling cards. Scent glands release pheromones that other animals detect. They broadcast dossiers of information about the markers along with their intentions. In addition to delineating territories, scent identifies individuals, their health, sex, and whether they’re ready to rendezvous with a member of the opposite sex. The freshness of the mark time stamps the visit.

Wildlife kiosk

One of our cameras is positioned to record predators marking at the same site. The wildlife cam is facing a popular wildlife intersection that is frequently visited by multiple species. It captures videos of coyotes, bobcats and domestic dogs sniffing the spot and then leaving their individual calling cards that are detected by the next animal making his/her rounds. Most predators spend time checking the marked spot, but not all leave calling cards.

The camera repeatedly catches the same coyote pair on patrol. They take turns urinating in the same spot. Hours later, a solitary coyote usually checks out the smell and then hurries up the path without marking.  We’ve seen the same behavior from bobcats.

Four to five bobcats frequent the intersection. One male and a female with her two kittens are regularly recorded. The male is typically solitary, whereas the female is often in the company of her kittens, unless she’s hunting. We’ve seen the kittens develop from when they were a couple of months old. The larger kitten has recently become interested in the marked spot. Although he (we are assuming this is a male) hasn’t left his calling card, he thoroughly checks out the scents.

It’s not just the wild animals who are fascinated with the virtual sign post. The trail is popular with people and their dogs. The camera documents dogs sniffing and then urinating over the marks left by their wild coyote cousins and bobcats. People who walk their dogs daily on the trail probably don’t think about why their dogs choose that particular spot to mark.

The scent markings also serve as alerts for animals down the food chain who are potential meals. Even with built-in artillery, this skunk doesn’t stay long. He takes a whiff and makes a quick getaway.

Household predators

Our sweet companion cats engage in many of the same instinctual behaviors that their wild felid cousins do. Scent is important to them as well—they mark for the same reasons and ways their cousins do. In addition to facial rubs, head butting and scratching objects, whole domestic and feral cats will mark with urine and feces (spaying and neutering household cats usually stops them from marking with excreta).

Natural habitats are shrinking. Highways cut through territories, buildings encroach on wild areas. Urbanization has greatly reduced the wild lands that are the homes for many animal species. In order to survive, animals must adjust to the shrinking lands. Predators who are territorial, need to share the land—scent marking is one of the effective ways that they can share the same space, but not necessarily at the same time.

Please check out my Facebook page The Cat Coach.  It’s about all things cat…

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These little guys are also called pack rats and trader rats. They live up to the labels because they will drop whatever they’re carrying in order to pick up objects that are more appealing. They’re especially attracted to things that shine. Although, at first glance, it’s easy to confuse these busy little dusky-footed woodrats with the common rat (Rattus rattus), they’re not closely related.

They’re officially named dusky-footed woodrats because of the sooty gray colored fur that’s on their feet, chests and sometimes adorns their little faces. They sport tails that are roughly the length of their bodies. Unlike rattus, who have naked tails, theirs are slightly furred.

Special status

There are 11 subspecies of woodrats. One, the riparian is endangered; another is listed as a California Subspecies of Special Concern (annectens).  The annectens calls the canyon home. Their special status is partially responsible for saving the canyon from becoming a subdivision. Developers were eager to build homes on this prime land, but thankfully, county planners and conservationists ruled that the canyon has to be left as a conservation easement. In return, 11 parcels of land on the canyon rim are allowed to be developed into homes. I’m thankful that the majority of the 93 acres will remain untouched and wild.

The canyon can’t be developed because of the dusky-footed woodrat’s endangered status. Photo by Marilyn Krieger, CCBC

Dusky-footed woodrat homes

Dusky-footed woodrats are industrious, smart and clean. They build elaborate stick homes that are the human equivalent of mansions. These structures are built to last—some have been around for 70 years and are up to 7 feet tall. They’re constructed out of twigs and branches and are usually built around the trunks of bay laurel trees. Sometimes they’re also located high up in the trees—penthouse suites with commanding, expansive views.

Dusky-footed woodrats build homes at the base of trees as well as high in the branches. Photo by Marilyn Krieger, CCBC

Smart homes

To the untrained eye, it looks as if sticks were haphazardly thrown together to form chaotic piles. They weren’t. The structures are elaborate with multiple stories and an abundance of rooms that include resting chambers, nurseries and pantries. There are a number of larders in the homes, each used for storing different types of food and treasures—separate ones for fungi, others for acorns and bark and some are delegated for leaves. Storage rooms are also designated for stashing shiny objects, such as keys, pens and foil. These stick houses also have back entrances as well as separate structures that function as latrines.

The stick mansions are weather proof. The walls and floors of the rooms are covered with bark which keeps them warm and dry in winter. Additionally, many of the chambers are lined with gnawed bay leaves which act as a natural fumigant, helping to reduce parasites. The leaves have a pungent, almost medicinal smell—apparent after rubbing a couple of leaves between my fingers. It’s not surprising that woodrats construct most of their homes around the bases of bay trees.

Woodrat homes are elaborate with multiple stories and an abundance of rooms that include resting chambers, nurseries and pantries. Photo by Marilyn Krieger, CCBC

Some woodrats also have satellite homes. They aren’t quite as large as the primary dwellings and may function as safe havens to retreat to when there are predators nearby. One of my cameras is strapped to a bay laurel tree that supports a secondary home.

No vacancies

Only females and their pups live in the stick castles. Adult males aren’t permanent residents. The largest stick dwellings are typically the homes of the community’s senior females. After they die, they’re usually taken over by other females.

These little guys have to be busy. It takes a lot of time and effort to build and repair their homes. Sticks, twigs, leaves and large branches are gathered, dragged and carefully put into place. I’m amazed at the size and weight of some of the branches that are incorporated into these amazing structures.

Loners yet social butterflies

Woodrats are matriarchal. The females choose who to mate with, usually favoring the same male companion every year. Although adult females live alone in their mansions, they’re social with the neighbors. Homes are built near each other, forming woodrat neighborhoods.

Important part of the ecosystem

There’s plenty to eat in the canyon. Dusky-footed woodrats are vegetarians, feasting on fungi, leaves and other vegetation that is readily available throughout the year. Poison oak is especially tasty—the trail has an abundance of poison oak that is kept in check by hungry woodrats. They, in turn provide nourishment for predators which helps keep their population in control. Bobcats, coyotes and raptors rely heavily on them for sustenance. Mountain lions will sometimes supplement their diets with woodrats as well.  It’s a delicate balance.

I never thought I’d become fascinated with rodents, especially those who resemble rattus rattus. Although they look like rats, dusky-footed woodrats differ in a number of ways. These include: being habitually clean, building elaborate, multi-chamber homes, collecting objects, living in matriarchies and some sub-species are endangered. These industrious rodents are also an important part of the canyon’s ecosystem and need to be continually protected.

Here are my sources. Unfortunately, some of my sources didn’t list their sources:

Friends of Edgewood: Dusky-footed Woodrat

Woodrats: A Home for the Holidays by Matt Dolkas

National Wildlife Federation Dusky-Footed Woodrat

Biological Assessment for the Green Valley Trail Alignment San Mateo County

The post Dusky-Footed Woodrats Help Save a Canyon appeared first on Urban Edge Wildlife.

Summer changes

The early summer heat has begun to impact the environment. Although the creek that is adjacent to my favorite trail has dried up, there is another water source nearby that wildlife can easily access. A spring at the base of the trail consistently produces fresh, clear water. And, there still is an abundance of vegetation—food for the deer and resident rodents who in turn attract predators. It may be a different story later in the summer when the vegetation dies off.

Baby animals on the trail

Spring brought with it new life. Many youngsters, such as these skunk kits, are now old enough to accompany their mums on the trail. Although I love being entertained by them, I’m grateful that I can watch them on a computer monitor.

Our wildlife cameras have been fortunate to film deer families, including newborns, fawns and yearlings. It’s delightful to watch these youngsters bopping up the trail.

The deer are plentiful—the majority of wildlife our cameras are filming this month is deer. Camera #2 filmed these three bucks. Note the velvet on their antlers. I am assuming that they are bros.

Deer on the trail. Photo by Marilyn Krieger, CCBC

Wildlife adjusts to people

People are impacting the wildlife on the trails. Wild animals, including mountain lions and bobcats will go out of their ways to not cross paths with people. They adjust their schedules and routes in order to avoid chance encounters. It’s rare to catch glimpses of felines during the day around well hiked trails—they wait until late at night and before dawn to venture out, those times when humans are usually asleep.

Pumas adjust their schedules in order to avoid people. Photo by Marilyn Krieger, CCBC

With the days becoming warm and long, camera #4 is filming a pattern. It is capturing videos of people traipsing the path at all hours of the day, including late at night and before dawn, those times when mountain lions and bobcats are the most likely to take advantage of it.  Although there may be other factors involved, such as seasonal cycles, animals appear to be shying away from the trail as it increases in popularity with people. Recently, we’ve only filmed a couple of bobcats late at night and no lions. I suspect that I won’t see the lions again until the fall or winter—I hope I’m wrong. Check out the time stamp on this video.

Daytime activity

The trail joins with another wildlife byway that meanders through a deep canyon until it reaches Crystal Springs Reservoir. This is a protected area with two man-made lakes—the west side is wild and virtually people-free. Only rangers and the few lucky Felidae volunteers, who maintain trail cameras, occasionally venture to the west side of the lakes. Because wildlife rarely encounters humans in that protected area, they don’t need to limit their activities to late at night. These playful mountain lion youngsters and their mum were filmed at around 5:00 PM about one month ago.

Puma cubs playing during the day. Photo courtesy of Felidae Conservation Fund

Dusky-footed woodrats

This article wouldn’t be complete without checking in on the busy little woodrats. I found out this morning that these little guys are dusky-footed woodrats. Although it’s not clear how they are being impacted by the hot weather and the increase of people hiking the trail, camera #4 is filming an abundance of them being productive at night, collecting twigs to build and repair their homes. We also caught one enterprising woodrat adding on to her penthouse suite high up in a tree.

Dusky-footed woodrat home. Photo by Marilyn Krieger, CCBC

The wildlife cameras are filming changes. Most are expected, caused by the cycle of seasons. Others may be caused by an increase of people enjoying popular trails throughout the day and into the night.

 

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