Coyote Sightings On The Rise In Lakewood

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DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) – A couple of pictures posted to Facebook of coyotes running around Dallas' Lower Greenville and Lakewood neighborhoods have some neighbors in the area concerned.

Brian Dixon, a Lakewood resident took one of the pictures near Prospect and Delmar streets.

"They were just sniffing around, scratching, didn't seem to mind that we had the lights on them whatsoever," said Dixon.

Bonnie Bradshaw of 911 Wildlife, the company contracted by the City of Dallas to handle coyote said the recent drop in temperatures is bring the coyotes out to eat.

"Their primary source of food is rats squirrels and rabbits and there are 50 times more of those prey items in a residential neighborhood," said Bradshaw.

Bradshaw reminds residents that the coyotes are native to the area, but don't pose a threat to humans.

She said on occasion they have attacked cats and small dogs and advises pet owners to keep a close eye on their pets. Homeowners should make it known to the coyotes that their presence isn't wanted, according to Bradshaw.

"The number one thing to do is clap your hands, wave your arms, shout at it, act like the dominant animal," she said.

If you do spot a coyote and have an issue with it you're encouraged to call Dallas 311.

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