Now, though, the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Department has hired Henry Coletto, a wildlife specialist, to deal with such issues.

Coletto is putting together a training and public relations program for various agencies and local residents so that they can be more informed about wildlife and ways to protect themselves.

"I am getting out and speaking to various clubs and homeowners associations," said Coletto. "I will tell them what to do and what not to do."

He said that as recreational areas grow around the county, more and more people will come into contact with wildlife.

"It could be anything from a mountain lion to a coyote, a black widow spider or a rattlesnake," he said.

"We are very excited to have him on board. With his expertise, we can give more security to the community," said deputy Terrance Helm of the Santa Clara Sheriff's Department.

Coletto said that mountain lions prey on deer, and any place that has deer will attract mountain lions. "Mountain lions are elusive. They stay away from people. Nobody sees the cats," he said. "They hunt in the early morning and late at night."

As more and more people build homes in the hills, wild animals come near the houses and see them as food sources. "A lush lawn is going to attract deer. And wherever deer go, mountain lions will follow," said Coletto. Deer are the main food source for mountain lions.

As for coyotes, they are very adaptable. "One of their favorite food sources is cat or dog food that is left out in the open," said Coletto. "Once they learn that there is food around, they are going to hang around."

There have been some reports locally of coyote attacks on cats and smaller dogs.

"I sometimes see coyotes when I take my dogs out for a walk in the morning," said Kiran Malhotra, who has lived in Saratoga for about 15 years. "But they don't normally come close to the house."

Colleto said that mountain lions or coyotes attack mostly when they are cornered or if they have been suddenly startled by something. "Hikers should always walk in groups and use good judgment at all times," said Coletto.

He said that the best way to deal with a mountain lion is to back off slowly. "You can holler at the animal or throw rocks and sticks. Never run, because whatever the mountain lion preys on—deer, wild pigs and rabbits—also runs," said Coletto. He said that sometimes children might look like prey to mountain lions because of their small size.

Pruning bushes in the backyard helps to reduce hiding places for the animals.