Tips for Coexisting with Wildlife in Burbank

Reminders from the Burbank Animal Shelter when encountering wildlife in Burbank:

Coyotes

• DO NOT FEED COYOTES OR WILDLIFE - Keeping coyotes wild is the key to coexisting. Feeding wildlife, like squirrels, near your home will also attract coyotes following sources of food.

• REMOVE ATTRACTANTS - Feed pets inside, constain waste, compost and pick up fallen fruit. Keep yards well landscaped to prevent coyotes or other wildlife from denning in yards.

• SUPERVISE YOUR PETS - Walk dogs on 6 foot leashes. Keep cats and small dogs inside for safety. Make sure yards are clear of coyotes before letting pets out. 

• KEEP COYOTES WARY - Always HAZE coyotes. If nearby, act big and make loud noises. Carry noise makers such as airhorns to scare off coyotes. 

• KEEP OTHERS INFORMED - Share these tips with neighbors and notify your local animal control agency of any sightings. Burbank sightings can be reported on the Our Burbank 311 App or by calling the Burbank Animal Shelter during business hours at (818) 238-3340 or the Burbank Police Department at 818-238-3000 after-hours. 

• Visit CoyoteHazing.com to learn more.

Bears are indigenous to the Verdugo Mountains adjacent to Burbank. During warmer weather, bears can be active in mountainous areas. To be better prepared, remember the following tips:

• Never approach a bear or pick up a bear cub.

• If you encounter a bear, do not run. Instead, face the animal, make noise, and try to appear as large as possible. 

• Carry noise makers such as airhorns to HAZE bears if needed.

• If attacked, fight back.

• Call 9-1-1 if a bear is encountered, or attacks a person. 

• Avoid keeping food or water outside.

• Use bear-proof garbage cans or keep trash inaccessible until trash day.

• Keep a close watch on children and teach them what to do if they encounter a bear. 

• Report sightings to the Burbank Animal Shelter at (818) 238-3340.

Visit BurbankAnimalShelter.org to watch our Bear Awareness Presentation with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

NEVER feed a wild animal. Feeding even the smallest animal or deer can negatively affect the natural food chain. Wild animals may lose their natural wariness of humans, decide to stick around, and attract larger predatory animals such as coyotes. 

• Feeding wildlife is illegal per California Code of Regulations Title 14, Section 251.1

For more helpful resources and information, visit: BurbankAnimalShelter.org