Full Breakdown
Coyotes Take Over Abandoned West Hollywood Construction Site
7/28/2026, 11:04:16 AM
Core Event: Pack of Coyotes Occupies Vacant Condo Project
A group of coyotes has made an unfinished, abandoned condominium complex at the corner of Romaine Street and North Spaulding Avenue their home. Residents report seeing the animals lounging on balconies, strolling through construction debris and howling loudly at night. Video footage captured at least four coyotes on the site, while some neighbors estimate the pack numbers as high as six. The pack’s presence has turned the empty structure into a nightly “coyote condo,” prompting safety concerns for people, pets and the animals themselves.
Background & Context
Construction on the multi-unit building halted several years ago after the developer lost funding. Neighbors say work stopped roughly three to four years ago, leaving the skeletal frame exposed. The site has also served as a temporary shelter for homeless individuals, who were later removed, after which the coyotes moved in. Across Los Angeles County, coyote sightings have risen since the start of 2026, a trend officials link to warmer weather and habitat loss from the 2025 Eaton and Palisades wildfires.
Data & Statistics
- Pack size: Residents have documented at least four coyotes on video; some claim up to six are present.
- Construction hiatus: Work ceased approximately three to four years ago.
- Regional coyote activity: City data note an increase in sightings citywide since early 2026.
Official Statements & Responses
The City of West Hollywood confirmed that it has a comprehensive Coyote Management and Coexistence Plan in place, originally adopted in 2018. The plan emphasizes non-lethal strategies, public education, and humane hazing techniques for coyotes that become habituated to humans. City officials also said they are coordinating with Los Angeles County agencies to monitor the pack’s behavior and to ensure public safety.
On-the-Ground Reports
Neighbors describe mixed feelings. Some express sympathy, noting that the animals may have been displaced by recent wildfires, while others worry about nighttime howling, potential attacks on small dogs, and the risk of coyotes scavenging pet food or trash. Residents have reported difficulty sleeping due to the loud howls and have taken steps such as quietly shooing the animals away when encountering them near their cars.
Why It Matters
The situation highlights the challenges of urban wildlife coexistence when development projects stall. While coyotes provide ecological benefits, their proximity to dense residential areas raises concerns about human-coyote interactions, especially for families with pets. City officials and residents alike are calling for a humane resolution that protects both community safety and the well-being of the coyotes.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It's kind of interesting to walk out of your apartment and look up and there's a coyote looking at you,” — Cindy Sorley, said resident
- “We see them on the second and third floors, basking in the sun, pretty wild,” — Tyler Lennier, another resident
- “People are avoiding even walking their dogs by that structure, out of fear, obviously,” — Collin Newman
- “I mean, they just shouldn't be here at all, you know?” — Michael Laselva
- “It's not nice seeing them just like walking all around here all skinny and fragile looking.” — Michael Laselva. ABC
