By day, the graceful peaks and rises of the Malibu hills outside of Los Angeles are a gorgeous backdrop for the dark blue Pacific water. But they're also home to nocturnal animals that come out at night looking for food. All too often, the prey they seek is a small domestic animal.

All over the Southland, canyons ringed with hilly ranges are home to mountain lions, bobcats, deer, coyotes, raccoons, foxes and more. As housing springs up, they're  forced to come out of the hills and look for prey. Add to this the danger posed to small pets by the predatory birds that fly overhead and pets are put at further risk for injury or death.

Residents who live in the foothills of Glendale, La Crescenta, Burbank  and Pasadena are especially aware of the danger coyotes pose to their pets. Even urban Los Angeles has been plagued by attacks as its estimated 5,000 coyotes roam the city.

To protect your small pets The Southern California Veterinary Medical Association recommends:  

• Because most coyotes attack after dark, pets should be kept inside or supervised when outdoors during the evening. Remember coyotes can jump fences, so do not rely on one to keep your pet safe.
• Keep pets close by or on leashes rather than letting them loose. Unattended pets are more susceptible to animal attacks and accidents.
• Pick up food left outside to avoid attracting unwanted guests.  Remove fallen fruit, especially avocados, from yards. 
• Put trash in sturdy barrels with secure lids.  A locking mechanism is ideal.  With a strong rope or cord, secure the cans to a fence or post so they can’t be tipped over.
• Call authorities immediately if you see a coyote. This will help in tracking and alerting local communities.
• Keeping a clean landscape eliminates hiding places for coyotes.
• Most importanly, Never feed coyotes.