CO-EXISTING WITH WILDLIFE

As most of you already know, we share the wooded areas with a multitude of wildlife in Trophy Club, ranging from the little field mouse to the large white-tailed deer. Living next to the Corp of Engineer property and the golf course allows foxes, coyotes, bobcats and all wildlife easy access to our yards and properties. Most of these animals will hunt or stalk bird feeders for birds, squirrels or other small rodents that come after the birdseed. Most of our experiences will be sightings, or occasionally some first-hand contact with some of the nuisance animals that show up around the house and dig in our flowerbeds and lawns or get into our trash. Existing alongside these animals can be quite a chore at times but following a few simple rules will help lessen the chance of a predator coming around your property:

• Keep pet food up and inside. Do not leave food or water outside for your animals to eat. Food will attract furbearing animals that you do not want around your home.
• Trash should be kept inside or in tightly closed containers. Trash will attract raccoons, opossums, crows, stray cats and dogs, and all other types of wildlife. I have rescued many a damsel (and men) from raccoons and opossums that have made their way into the garage after the family pet food or trash. Trash and food items also attract rodents into your garage or deck area, and rodents, in turn, will attract snakes, coyotes, foxes and bobcats.
• Do not allow any of your cats to roam freely, even while in your presence unless very close to you. Coyotes have been seen as close at 30 yards, sitting and watching people with cats in the backyards. While they are not likely to attack your cat with you standing there, rest assured it may come back later to see if the cat is out by itself.
• Dogs, especially small ones, should always be on a leash. Coyotes are dogs, too, and they attract one another. Recently, some coyotes have been seen around the Harmony Park area in the evening. Coyotes are curious by nature, and they will come to see what the noise is when children are playing in the park and will sit and watch as you walk your pet past them. Do not try to approach them, but rather yell loudly, clap your hands, and if possible, throw a rock or stick at them. Coyotes are becoming far too accustomed to us and no longer receive a negative reaction from us when we do see them. Always shout loudly or throw something at them. This action will condition them to stay away from humans.

Should you encounter any sick or injured animals/wildlife, always call police dispatch: 972-434 -5500 or Animal Control direct line: 682- 831- 4659.