KATY MAGAZINE NEWS
May 13, 2022
By Natalie Cook Clark
Katy residents frequently report seeing wild animals in their neighborhoods. Coyotes roam some local parks and streets raising concern for the safety of local children and pets.
Screenshot video credit: Shannon Hayes
Coyote Filmed by Katy Resident
Katy residents often come face to face with local wildlife. A Katy resident recently caught a coyote on camera as it routinely prowls the Williamsburg Colony community.
Protect Your Pets
Shannon Hayes took quick action to protect her smaller dogs when she saw a coyote roaming her street. She originally caught it on one of her household cameras on March 22 but had a hard time identifying if it was truly a coyote.
Video credit: Shannon Hayes
“I ran out and bought a 6-foot kennel with a roof to put outside their doggie door to lock them safely in from dusk till dawn while maintaining outside bathroom access,” says Hayes.
She then saw it again weeks later on her way to work.
“This coyote ran right in front of my Jeep,” says Hayes. “I made sure to get video to warn people to protect their pets.”
Katy residents have reported cats and small dogs being attacked and killed by coyotes and bobcats. Residents should always take precautions but respect and leave wildlife alone.
“Seeing native wildlife such as coyotes and bobcats should be handled the same way as when one sees alligators,” says Fort Bend Constable Major Chad Norvell, Precinct 1. “Leave them alone and they’ll leave you alone.”
How to Deter Coyotes from Your Home
Do not keep pet food outside.
Clean your grill after use.
Clear away potential hiding places.
Cover trash and recycling cans.
If composting, do not add meat or bones.
Keep small pets indoors.
Norvell urges residents to call them (281-341-4665) if a coyote, like any other wild animal is wandering in a neighborhood and residents are alarmed.