Living with Wildlife in the Sonoran Desert: Understanding Urban Wildlife
Urban areas are not only home to humans; the Sonoran Desert also provides a habitat for a diverse range of wildlife species. Arizona Game and Fish, along with their urban wildlife specialists, emphasize the importance of coexisting with wildlife and understanding their needs. During a recent presentation we attended by the Arizona Game and Fish Department, we received some tips to help us live in peace with local wildlife. The presenters focused on coyotes, a primary wildlife concern in many urban neighborhoods.
Coexisting with animals in the Sonoran Desert or any natural environment requires respect, understanding, and responsible behavior. In this article, we have outlined some guidelines to help you coexist harmoniously with the wildlife. The first step is to understand which animals are common in your area and how to identify them. Always keep in mind, wild animals and can behave unpredictably.
Understanding Wildlife Needs:
To effectively coexist with wildlife, it is crucial to recognize their needs. Wildlife requires suitable habitat, which varies depending on the size of the animal. Access to water sources, such as pools, golf course ponds, and irrigation, is essential. Adequate cover and food sources, including native vegetation and citrus trees, contribute to the survival of wildlife in urban areas. Learning about the native animal species in the Sonoran Desert and their behavior and understanding their habitat requirements, feeding habits, and potential risks they may pose is the first step to protecting yourself, your family and your pets. It is best to give wildlife their space and avoid approaching them too closely. Observe from a distance using binoculars or a camera lens, allowing them to go about their natural activities undisturbed.
Your Property Is a Wildlife Habitat:
As humans, we are just one link in the ecosystem, and our properties will be inhabited by wildlife from bugs to birds to rodents and potentially larger species like bobcats, coyotes, foxes and javelinas. If you have a garden or landscaping, choose native plants that provide food and shelter for local wildlife. Avoid using pesticides and chemicals that can be harmful to animals. Be aware of nesting seasons for birds and other animals. Avoid disturbing nesting sites or interfering with their nests, eggs, or young. Beware of leaving small dogs in your yard unattended, as coyotes are known to be capable of jumping over 8-foot fences. Additionally, being mindful of not leaving pet food outside and securing garbage cans can help minimize wildlife attraction to residential areas. Feeding wildlife can disrupt their natural foraging behavior and lead to dependency on human sources for food. It can also encourage animals to approach humans more closely, increasing the risk of conflicts or accidents. Secure your trash cans and keep them tightly sealed to prevent attracting animals.
Human-Wildlife Conflict and Pet Safety:
One of the significant conflicts between wildlife and humans arises when small pets become vulnerable to wildlife encounters. While coyotes occasionally breed with domestic dogs, they may view small pets as potential prey. However, it's important to note that coyotes are typically more afraid of humans and are not naturally aggressive towards larger dogs, unless their pups are nearby. Wildlife diseases, such as mange and rabies, can also pose risks to pets.
Coyotes, A Common Wildlife Challenge:
Coyotes are often considered the number one problem animal in many urban areas. These adaptable creatures are known for their ability to thrive in various environments. Coyotes, typically weighing around 30 pounds, can appear larger during the winter season due to their thick coats. Their mating season occurs from January to March, during which they choose den sites. Approximately 20% of coyotes born survive their first year; coyotes reach full maturity within a year. They have a diverse diet, making them opportunistic feeders.
Wildlife Along the Roads:
When driving in desert areas, be aware of wildlife crossing the road. Reduce speed and stay alert to avoid collisions with animals. Many animals may be active during dawn, dusk, or nighttime, so exercise extra caution during these times. Participate in citizen science initiatives and report wildlife sightings to local authorities or conservation organizations. Your observations can contribute to research and monitoring efforts. It is helpful to support conservation efforts and participate in habitat restoration initiatives that will provide adequate space for wildlife. Protecting and restoring natural habitats also helps to maintain a healthy ecosystem and provides essential resources for wildlife. These efforts will protect you and the wildlife with whom we share this desert ecosystem.
How to Handle Close Encounters with Wildlife:
Living with wildlife in urban areas requires understanding and awareness of their needs and behaviors. By implementing practical solutions and taking precautions, such as keeping pets indoors and supervising outdoor activities, individuals can mitigate potential conflicts and ensure the safety of both humans and wildlife. Avoid disturbing or destroying natural habitats such as nests, burrows, or dens. These areas provide essential shelter for wildlife. If you enjoy hiking, camping, or other outdoor activities in the Sonoran Desert, be cautious and aware of your surroundings. Make noise to alert animals of your presence and avoid surprising them.
To be proactive, it is helpful to familiarize yourself with basic first aid techniques for wildlife encounters. This knowledge can be useful in case of emergencies or when providing assistance to injured animals. To ensure the safety of pets and promote peaceful coexistence, there are several easy solutions to consider. Keeping cats indoors significantly reduces their exposure to wildlife and increases their lifespan by 50%. It is also important to supervise pets and small children when outdoors and discourage the active feeding of wildlife. In the Sonoran Desert snakes may enter your yard through fences, so it may be advisable to add chicken wire to the lower part of your fence as a deterrent.
When you encounter a wild animal, determine if the animal appears injured, distressed, or behaving aggressively. Keep a safe distance and avoid any direct contact. Your safety is paramount. If the animal is behaving aggressively or poses an immediate threat, slowly and calmly back away, maintaining eye contact if possible. Do not turn your back on the animal or make sudden movements that may provoke it. It is crucial not to approach or attempt to touch an injured or aggressive animal. Even injured animals can become defensive or dangerous if they feel threatened. Maintain a safe distance and keep any pets or children away.
While coyotes may be the primary concern, it's important to be aware of other wildlife species that can pose risks to humans and pets. Great horned owls and hawks, for example, are known to prey on small pets. Supervision and taking necessary precautions are key to protecting pets and children from potential wildlife encounters. Keep your pets leashed and under control when in wildlife habitats. Unrestrained pets can disturb or chase wildlife, causing stress or harm to both animals. If you encounter a dangerous animal, stay calm and carefully assess the situation.
If you encounter injured, orphaned, or aggressive wildlife, contact local wildlife authorities or animal control agencies for assistance. For more information on living with coyotes and other urban wildlife, it is recommended to visit the Arizona Game and Fish website. They have the knowledge and experience to handle wildlife encounters and can provide guidance on the appropriate steps to take. We have also contacted the Phoenix Herpetological Society to assist with snake removal in the past.
When reporting an incident, provide accurate and detailed information about the location, species of animal, and its behavior. This will help the authorities assess the situation and respond accordingly. Follow the instructions and advice given by the wildlife authorities. They may instruct you to stay away from the area or provide guidance on how to provide temporary care for an injured animal until help arrives. It is essential to leave the rescue and rehabilitation of injured wildlife to trained professionals. Handling wild animals without proper knowledge and equipment can be dangerous for both you and the animal. Remember, it is always best to prioritize your safety and let the experts handle wildlife encounters. By contacting the appropriate authorities, you can ensure that the injured or aggressive animal receives the necessary care while minimizing any potential risks to yourself and others.
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