Coyotes are normal residents of the Elfin Forest

The interaction with coyotes described in the April 6 Tribune by Mr. Jim Wagner (“Dangers lurk in Elfin Forest”) is not especially unique, except for the number of coyotes involved. It is likely that the behavior of the coyotes comes from the fact that the individual in the Facebook post had their pet dog with them.

Interactions between humans and their pets with the resident coyotes are relatively common. Many residents of Los Osos bring their pet dogs into the forest on a daily basis. When any interactions with coyotes are reported, they usually involve a large dog. However, no cases of interactions resulting in physical harm have been reported. Coyotes usually avoid visitors to the Elfin Forest who do not have any pets.

The Elfin Forest Natural Area is composed of California State Parks and San Luis Obispo County Parks sections. As such, the animal life and vegetation are being preserved. Coyotes are natural inhabitants of the forest and serve a useful purpose by controlling the populations of rodents such as rabbits and carnivores.

Coyotes will be residents of the Elfin Forest for the foreseeable future and should be tolerated because of their role in preserving the wild ecosystem that is the Elfin Forest Natural Area.

This story was originally published April 9, 2016 at 9:54 PM with the headline "Coyotes are normal residents of the Elfin Forest."