Urban Wildlife Wonders Unveiled: Game & Fish Hosts Captivating Presentation

The Arizona Game & Fish Department recently addressed growing concerns about urban wildlife in Oak Creek. Public Affairs Community Liaison Stevie Kelso and AZGFD Supervisor Tim Holt presented to the Village of Oakcreek Association on July 11, following multiple reports of nuisance coyotes in the area. Holt emphasized that there have been no documented coyote bites, suggesting that the animals are not displaying behaviors that could lead to such incidents.

“The best approach for both humans and wildlife is to encourage independence,” Kelso stated. “Wildlife should rely on their natural instincts and food sources. Minimizing human interaction is crucial to preventing conflicts. When animals become dependent on human sources of food, they lose their natural apprehension and can become problematic.”

Residents have been particularly concerned since two coyotes were spotted near the Oak Creek Country Club, a sight well-documented by local photographer Thomas White. One of the animals, Robby, is approximately ten years old, while his offspring, Taylor, is around five.

During the presentation, Holt and Kelso provided practical tips for residents:

• Eliminate attractants such as food, water sources, or potential shelter.
• Avoid intentionally feeding coyotes, as this can encourage them to associate humans with food. Sedona City Council enacted a wildlife feeding ban earlier this year after incidents involving aggressive javelina due to neighborhood food sources.
• Place trash bins outside only on the morning of collection to reduce wildlife access.
• Cleaning trash cans with a bleach solution can minimize odors that attract wildlife.
• Keep pets indoors and supervise them outdoors, especially at dawn and dusk.
• Secure small pets in robust enclosures.
• Trim bushes and plants to eliminate hiding spots for coyotes.
• Discourage coyotes’ presence by making loud noises or throwing small objects at them.

“Ignoring a coyote in your yard is as dangerous as feeding it,” a pamphlet from AZGFD indicated. “It’s important to communicate to the animal that it’s unwelcome.”

The AZGFD cautions that coyotes can transmit diseases like canine distemper and heartworm to domestic dogs. Holt explained that despite various control measures over the years, coyotes have thrived, often in greater numbers. “Lethal removal is not a viable long-term solution,” he stated.

Kelso urged residents to report any aggressive wildlife behavior directly to the department’s dispatch at (623) 236-7201. For further guidance on coexisting with urban wildlife, residents can explore resources available on the AZGFD website or reach out to the Flagstaff office.