In the wake of expanding human development into once-open wildlife habitats, urban and suburban areas are witnessing an increase in encounters with coyotes, much like the phenomenon seen with urban deer. This encroachment near large metropolitan areas raises the potential for conflicts between people and wildlife, particularly coyotes.
Authorities, such as Irving Animal Services, emphasize that unless health and public safety are at risk, they will not trap, relocate, or exterminate coyotes. Coyotes, like other urban wildlife, play a crucial role in the ecosystem by helping control the population of rodents and other nuisance species that can cause damage and spread disease in the city.
Residents are urged to be vigilant and take simple precautions to coexist peacefully with urban wildlife. If a coyote appears aggressive, authorities should be notified, as aggressive behavior may indicate an unhealthy animal.
To coexist with urban wildlife, experts recommend the following measures:
- Refrain from feeding wildlife.
- Secure pet food, garbage, and cover compost piles.
- Walk pets on a leash and keep them indoors or under supervision.
- Avoid ground feeding for wildlife.
- Secure fruit trees and minimize vegetation near buildings to deter rodents.
- If a coyote encounter happens, use noisemakers and scaring devices while adhering to local noise and firearms ordinances.
If a coyote encounter happens use noisemakers and scaring devices while adhering to local noise and firearms ordinances.
For more information, visit https://tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/wild/nuisance/coyote/.
