This morning, Local Profile saw a coyote near Weatherford Elementary in Plano. But it's not an uncommon sight, especially as we approach the cooler months.
Bobcat and coyotes are not rare in North Texas, according to the city of Plano. The are more commonly seen during the day in the colder months because the animals they hunt are more active during the day due to the cold nights.
The majority of them are not aggressive as long as you keep your distance, but it's better to be safe than sorry. Bobcats and coyotes are scary especially if you have small pets, so what should North Texas residents do if they encounter one? The city of Plano has some advice.
"Bobcat and coyote sightings are not unusual," said Steve Stoler, Plano's media relations director, in a tweet. "While seeing one can be a little startling, it's important to know that those animals have never attacked a single person in Plano's history."
According to Stoler, the best prevention for keeping your pets safe include tips like staying with them at all times while outdoors, keeping them on a leash when you're walking them (while paying attention to your surroundings), removing outdoor food and water sources and getting rid of any possible den spots.
Bobcats, Stoler points out, only hunt animals that are rabbit-sized or smaller. Coyotes, however, will hunt larger prey — but are no threat to healthy adults. Children, he continues, should be taught never to approach or interact with any unknown animal.
"The best course of action for adults to take when seeing a bobcat or coyote is to scare them off by yelling, throwing a small rock at them, spraying them with a high-powered squirt gun or hose or otherwise making them feel uncomfortable so they learn people are to be avoided," says Stoler, adding, "Our priority is keeping you and your pets safe.”
In case you missed it, check out Local Profile's previous coverage of keeping your dog safe from bobcat attacks.