A pack of coyotes has established a den in an abandoned condominium complex in West Hollywood, leading to unease among local residents who are urging the city to address the situation. The complex, which has remained under construction and vacant for years, was previously occupied by homeless individuals before the coyotes moved in.
Residents reported first noticing the animals around the beginning of the year. Videos and photographs circulating show at least six coyotes inhabiting different areas within the unoccupied building, with howling and barking frequently heard day and night. Some residents have described encounters with multiple coyotes near their vehicles.
"People are avoiding even walking the dogs by that structure out of fear, obviously," said Collin Newman, a neighbor. "There’s just, that’s not the society we live in. So, animal control has to really get on their game and do something about it because no one should feel unsafe."
Residents have stated they have contacted the city seeking assistance but have not yet received a response. The City of West Hollywood acknowledged awareness of the coyote activity and referenced its 2018 coyote management and coexistence plan. This plan outlines strategies for public education, prevention, and humane coexistence, including guidance on hazing coyotes that exhibit habituated behavior. Hazing techniques involve making oneself appear larger and louder, using noise, or squirting water to encourage the animals to leave.
Officials from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife noted a similar increase in coyote activity across Los Angeles County. They attribute this trend to factors such as warmer temperatures and habitat loss resulting from wildfires, such as those that occurred in the Pacific Palisades and Eaton areas.