/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/dmn/3O7LDN5W7NDB5A3QYFGNYCYMAU.jpg?ssl=1 "What do you do if you encounter a coyote in Dallas-Fort Worth?")
If you encounter a coyote in your neighborhood, most Metroplex cities recommend scaring them off and reporting it to a local hotline.
Urban coyotes play an essential role in managing local rodent populations, according to the Dallas coyote management plan. They are usually drawn to residential areas if food, shelter or unattended pets are accessible. While coyotes are not known to attack people regularly, some instances have occurred.
Given these instances, local officials recommend “hazing” tactics to teach coyotes to avoid human spaces. These include waving one’s arms above the head, shouting or making loud noises, tossing objects near but not at the coyote and spraying water in its direction.
How to report coyote sightings
Area cities have mixed policies on whether all coyote sightings should be reported or only those that involve interaction with a human or pet. See the list below for your city’s policy.
- Arlington: The city encourages all coyote sightings and interactions to be reported on its online form. If the coyote is being violent, call 911 immediately.
- Dallas: Residents are encouraged to call its coyote hotline, 469-676-9813, for all sightings and interactions. If the animal is engaging in violent behavior, call 911 immediately.
- Garland: Residents are requested to only report nuisance behavior from coyotes, not sightings, to Garland Animal Services at 972-205-3570.
- Fort Worth: The city’s wild animal page does not include specific instructions for coyote sightings or interactions, but recommends residents contact wildlife rescue and rehabilitation groups. Questions regarding these services can be directed to 817-392-1234.
- Plano: The city of Plano’s coyote facts webpage does not specify its preferred reporting circumstances, but directs all questions to Plano Animal Services at 972-769-4360.
