The coyote is a member of the dog family and is native to California. It closely resembles a small German shepherd dog with the exception of the long snout and bushy, black-tipped tail. The coyote's high-pitched, yodel-like yapping can frequently be heard at night.
Coyotes are extremely adaptable and can survive on whatever food is available. Coyotes are an important part of the ecosystem, helping to keep the rodent populations under control. They hunt rabbits, mice, birds, and other small animals.
Coyotes are by nature fearful of humans. If coyotes are given access to human food, pet food, or garbage, their behavior changes. They will quickly lose their natural fear of people and may become bold, even aggressive. Pets, especially small free-roaming animals, may be injured or killed by coyotes. Please be aware of risks associated with not supervising pets.
To report coyote activity in Torrance please call the 24-hour Coyote Hotline at (310) 618-3898 or use the Coyote Portal to submit a report online. If you see a coyote attacking a person immediately call 911.For questions involving the Coyote Management program you can email POrenstein@TorranceCA.Gov or call (310) 618-2945.
To report a sick, injured, or deceased animal, contact the Torrance Animal Control at (310) 618-3850. The Torrance Animal Control Office is open Monday through Thursday, and every other Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
(310) 618-3898
Coyote Management Portal