Wiley, a coyote from Atwater Village, was cruelly shot after an unfortunate incident where a toddler was bitten.  DNA was taken from Wiley AFTER he was shot.  They will likely shoot more in order to find the one who bit.  His story, sadly, is not unique in California, where coyotes are often summarily executed in such situations.  Coyote "euthanized" after child is injured during interaction in Atwater Village - CBS Los Angeles https://share.google/CZKmcjPMiGisql89t​

Residents are horrified and saddened by this killing. The toddler suffered minor injuries and was treated and released from hospital the same day. ​  LAPD later reported a coyote was shot.​ https://share.google/ibrzn4KqiHqnogATs

But there's a more humane way, one that respects both wildlife and the safety of our communities, as exemplified by practices in Italy.  

In Italy, when a canid is involved in a biting incident, they are safely live-captured and undergo DNA testing while still alive. This careful method allows the identification of the exact animal involved, ensuring that innocent animals are released back into the wild unharmed. Meanwhile, animals confirmed as having bitten are taken to a sanctuary where their behavior can be studied, providing valuable insights and maintaining ecological balance.

This thoughtful and humane approach is achievable in California and could prevent unnecessary killing of wild animals like Wiley. Implementing the Italian model here would contribute significantly to our commitment to compassion and conservation. By ensuring that DNA testing precedes any fatal decision, we can foster an environment where humans and wildlife peacefully coexist.

The coyote population in California plays an essential role in controlling rodent populations and maintaining the ecological balance. Each of these creatures deserves a chance to live, unless proven otherwise. It's crucial now more than ever to question the current practices and work towards a more enlightened approach in dealing with wildlife conflicts.

We urge the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to stop the indiscriminate shooting of coyotes and adopt the humane model used in Italy. By signing this petition, you stand for keeping our communities safe while also safeguarding the lives of these vital creatures. Lend your voice to this cause today and help implement this change for a fair balance between safety and the protection of wildlife in California. Please sign this petition to make a difference.