Animals are essential to our environment. But conflict can happen when animals enter our comfort zones. At DuPage County Animal Services, we encourage harmonious living with wildlife by humanely managing our spaces.
Why do animals venture into human areas? Most animals don’t recognize special designations for “human” spaces. They are attracted by free lodging and food. Trapping and removing one animal won’t solve the problem if the attraction is still there – so someone else will move in. Instead, focus on removing what attracts wildlife.
- Secure food sources like garbage cans, gardens and compost piles
- Secure hiding spaces (under decks and porches) with welded wire
- Regularly survey your home for broken soffit, siding or chimneys and fix those areas
- Use motion activated sprinklers or lights to make yards less attractive
You may need multiple deterrents to get wildlife to move on, find more tips at www.wildlifeillinois.org
Coyotes can be especially alarming, but remember, they are drawn to the same comforts. Trapping and killing coyotes can make the problem worse because multiple packs will move into the vacant territory. Just like with other wildlife, consider what is attracting them and remove it. DO NOT FEED COYOTES. Feeding coyotes decreases their natural fear of humans and may cause them to attack a person.
Additionally, use hazing techniques. Hazing is consistently using loud noises, lights and making yourself look bigger to make your property unattractive to coyotes. Be the world’s most obnoxious neighbor (by coyote standards). When you see coyotes on your property shout and wave your arms until they are out of sight. Bang pots and pans or use a water hose to spray arcs around you (do not spray the animal, instead use the water in bigger arcs to get them to back away). You may need to do this several times for the coyotes to understand your message.
Coyotes may be attracted to smaller pets as a food source, so keep dogs on a close leash (no longer than 6 feet) and have other small pets inside. Accompany pets into the yard especially when coyotes are most active at dusk and dawn. Remember: YOU are the deterrent. Coyotes are rarely a threat to people and will avoid interacting with us, including leaving pets alone when you are nearby.
The other canine typically found roaming is stray dogs. When dogs are lost or abandoned, they may become fearful of humans. We love when people want to help a stary dog, but always prioritize your own safety.
Stray Dog Safety Tips:
- Do not chase or try to grab
- Pay attention to body language
- Use treats or “happy” voice to get them to follow you
- An injured dog may react defensively, so be gentle and cautious while handling
- Secure the dog in a safe location (garage, fenced yard, etc.)
- Once secured, contact Animal Services
- If possible, check with neighbors or drive around to locate the dog’s owner
- If dog shows signs of aggression (growling, showing teeth, leaning forward):
- Stand still with arms to your side
- Avoid direct eye contact
- Move slowly backwards, keeping dog in peripheral sight
- If dog attacks:
- “feed” an item to the dog (jacket, purse, etc.)
- Throw items away from the dog to distract them from you
- Do Not Run
- Curl up into tight ball and protect your neck and face
If you have any questions or concerns about animals, please contact DuPage County Animal Services at 630-407-2800 or animalservices@dupageco.org.
Laura Winnie, from DuPage County Animal Services, was West-Win’s April 2023 General Meeting guest speaker. The insightful and helpful information presented at that meeting is being shared with members who were unable to attend