Jennifer Jacobs is reaching out to her L Streets neighbors. In fact, she'd like the word spread as far as possible based on the graphic nature of her discovery Friday morning.

"At approximately 8:00 a.m. this morning, I found a dead cat in my front yard. It was not there at 8:30 p.m. last night when I went outside to turn off my sprinklers. I could only identify its head and leg," said Jacobs. "It was a white and orange cat, and I am concerned that if it was someone's pet, they might not know what happened to their cat."

"I am hoping to get the word out to neighbors to keep their animals inside at night," said Jacobs, "based on the brutality of the death, and having heard about coyotes in the area." She is not the only neighbor to make such gruesome discoveries recently. Over the past month, with the latest incident occurring this week, residents on Lakemere Drive have discovered two dead cats on their street as well. Local veterinarians have been contacted with the details and are guessing a coyote or even small bobcat could be responsible.

With sightings of coyotes occurring in Lake Ridge Estates, south of McCree and east of Audelia, and just north of Walnut Hill in Lake Highlands Estates over the last year, LHT offers the following information concerning coyotes and potential sightings:

Coyotes are typically secretive animals not often seen or heard. Yet, there are times during the year when they are more visible and more vocal. Although usually nocturnal, coyotes can be seen any time of day, especially during the breeding season from late January into early March. Vocalizations, consisting of howls, yips and barks, also increase at this time.

Coyote attacks on humans are rare. However, if you come across a coyote that does not run, it might have become too habituated to people. In this case, you can yell, use noisemakers (pots and pans, empty soda cans with pebbles in them), throw rocks or sticks in his direction, raise your arms above your head, and make yourself look as big as possible.

Several preventive measures can be taken to reduce coyote-human interactions and the likelihood of continued problems with nuisance coyotes. Since coyotes are opportunistic feeders, removing potential food sources such as garbage and bird-feed will keep coyotes looking elsewhere for sustenance. Pets should not be fed outdoors.

Homeowners are also advised to keep their yards well manicured. Coyotes feed primarily on small mammals such as rabbits, mice and voles. Backyard debris or wood piles, as well as weedy and shrubby areas, can harbor these prey animals that attract coyotes.

Do not ever approach a coyote, as a cornered wild animal might attack out of fear. Wait for the coyote to run away from you. If the coyote you have encountered is particularly bold and does not leave the area, remain facing him or her and do not run, as this can trigger his or her prey drive. Maintain eye contact and back away towards an area with more people or toward a building. Call the authorities immediately to report the incident. (In this case, dial 311 and ask to speak to ANIMAL CONTROL SERVICES.)

We hope you will find this information helpful. LHT will continue to keep you updated as the need arises. Again, if you see coyotes in your neighborhood, please call 311 immediately.