As a member of several of Austin’s neighborhood email lists, I have been surprised to hear about frequent coyote sightings and encounters not only in the suburbs, but also in central Austin neighborhoods including the Shoal Creek area. Help protect your pets and children by staying up to date with a new service from the Austin American Statesman. This service is an interactive map and posting service where reports are sent in by concerned citizens. And I expect that many of you will be as surprised as I was at where these sightings occur!

Austin American-Statesman’s Coyote Encounter Page

Animal control authorities in Austin are aware of the coyote population in Austin and claim, as many animal groups do, that they do more good than harm by helping to maintain a natural balance of urban wildlife. The Austin population is watched and controlled closely with the help of reports from concerned neighbors. This site is a great resource for both residents and authorities. The City of Austin asks that if you see a coyote, call 3-1-1. By posting to the Statesman website, you can help Austin residents understand where problem areas are. If the population is getting out of control and causing harm to Austin, the City would like to know so that the problem can be handled appropriately.

If you would like to learn more about coyotes and their interactions with humans, I have found some great resources to get you started:

• The Humane Society of the United States - Coyote Information
• City of Austin - Urban Coyotes Information

Take care of yourself, your children, and your pets!

Aria Schoenfelt - Austin Realtor

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