Wildlife experts explain how the California drought is pushing coyotes into residential areas

DANVILLE, Calif. (KGO) – In the past few months, the city of Danville has seen a number of coyote attacks on neighborhood animals.

One of these attacks was on Rhea Saini’s dog Bella.

“Literally one person in our family was taken from us and killed right before our eyes,” said Saini.

PREVIOUS REPORT: Danville residents on high alert after series of coyote attacks

The incident traumatized Saini, but wildlife experts say it could continue to happen and even become more common.

“This is largely due to the drought,” says Peter Flowers of the Lindsay Wildlife Experience.

He says while things like forest fires and droughts continue to worsen, this puts pressure on wild animals that are forced to leave their natural habitats and go to places where they can find food and water.

“They are venturing into areas where they feel they can find these items,” Flowers said.

VIDEO: Coyote wanders into California classroom and refuses to leave

Flowers says coyotes generally don’t attack humans – something that worries Danville residents.

“Children of an age that could travel alone are generally too big for them. Flowers said.

Flowers also offered some tips for pet owners.

This includes avoiding feeding your animals outside, clearing potential hiding spots for coyotes on your property, walking your dog on a regular, non-retractable leash for better control, and even buying a coyote-proof vest for smaller breeds of dogs consider.

RELATED: East Bay Town to educate people about the safety of coyotes after 5 attacks

The city of Danville says it is very aware of the problem, and a city council member told ABC7 in a statement:

“We work with Fish and Wildlife. They asked us to report all incidents so they could get a clear picture of where the concentrations of coyote attacks in Danville are euthanizing the animal. ”

It’s a little relief to Bella’s family to say that something needs to be done.

“I don’t want anyone to experience what we did and I know it happens a lot,” said Saini.