Bobcats have adapted well to living around towns and large urban areas, like Dallas-Ft. Worth. They're nocturnal and avoid people, so these wild cats are rarely seen. But it's not a bad thing to have them as neighbors, because bobcats help keep rats and mice in check, yet aren't considered a threat to cats and dogs.

Don't encourage bobcats or other wildlife to come close to your home by leaving food, especially pet food, outside. Our wildlife biologists have more tips for keeping wildlife at a safe distance in the video, Keeping Wildlife Wild.

Coyotes live all around us, even in cities. They are permanent residents but should be avoided. Discourage nuisance coyotes with these tips:

• Do not leave food outside.
• Do not supply a source of water.
• Keep pets on a 4-6 ft. leash or monitored when outside.

If a coyote gets too close for comfort, do not run or turn your back – look it in the eye, yell and wave your arms. For more information on how to deal with urban nuisance coyotes, contact your local Urban Biologist.

Show your love for wildlife in a real way – volunteer to work with us on a project that supports wildlife. Volunteers of all ages, fitness levels and interests come to us – all you need is a desire to help. 

Volunteer as a family to give your child a unique experience and build the habit of community engagement. Kids must be 16 or older to volunteer without parental permission, but all ages can participate in many projects as part of a family group. 

Choose from the many wildlife-related projects on our current Wildlife & Community Science volunteering opportunities list.

If you'd like to dive more deeply into volunteering, consider becoming a Texas Master Naturalist. This program offers training and certification, preparing you for leadership roles in local natural resource conservation efforts. Look for a chapter near you.