Tuesday, Beaumont's Animal Services had to euthanize a coyote found in Beaumont's west end. Its discovery highlights what's become a growing problem in that part of town.
Animal control officers have been hosting neighborhood meetings to educate people on coyotes. They say it's important we learn to peacefully co-exist with the wild animals.
Beaumont Animal Services shelter director Susan Toney says there will be more sightings and more interactions with coyotes as Beaumont grows, and residential areas start encroaching in what used to be coyote turf.
Toney said, "As different cities and areas grow, we happen to grow into their domains.
Toney said it's unknown what led to the coyote's injury Tuesday, but she warns people it's illegal in Texas to trap the animals.
But she also says people should not befriend the animals.
She says not to leave food or water outside, and to wait until trash day to actually put the garbage outside.
Toney says the best way to keep coyotes away is through a technique called hazing. She says coyotes are reclusive animals who avoid human contact.
Toney says the simplest method of hazing a coyote involves being loud and large. Yell and wave your arms while approaching the coyote, use noisemakers, like whistles, air horns, bells and soda cans. She also advises throwing sticks, small rocks, cans and even balls at the coyote.
Other repellents are hoses, water guns and spray bottles with vinegar water and walking sticks. You should never run away from a coyote.
Other tips to keep the wild animals from urban or residential settings:
*Avoid feeding your pets outside
*Clean up spilled bird seeds around feeders
*Remove fallen fruit from the ground
*Keep trash in high-quality containers with tight-fitting lids.
