Officials in the city of Dallas are considering the adoption of a new ordinance that would ban feeding wildlife to keep coyotes away from residential communities.
Under the proposed ordinance, violators could face a fine if caught feeding wild animals by authorities. This proposed ordinance comes on the heels of a rash of coyote sightings and some attacks around North Texas, as reported by The Dallas Express.
Assistant Director of Dallas Animal Services (DAS) Whitney Bollinger held a public meeting with Dallas residents on June 13 about the proposed ordinance. Dallas Animal Services partnered with the Dallas Park and Recreation Department (DPR) to hold the meeting at the Lake Highlands Recreational Center.
A two-year-old boy was attacked by a coyote in the Lake Highlands neighborhood back in May, sustaining severe injuries that left him hospitalized in critical condition. The child has since been reported to be recovering. According to The Dallas Morning News, the attack spurred community members to call for a response from the city.
Part of the proposed ordinance calls for a new database to help DAS and DPR track coyotes in the area. It would consist of a collection of public and official sightings and incidents, providing dates and locations.
By discouraging residents from feeding wildlife, city officials hope that coyotes will be seen less in the area.
Coyotes pose a potential threat not only to residents but to their pets as well.
Bedford Animal Services reported at least two incidents of coyotes attacking people’s pets, per The Dallas Express.
To ensure the safety of humans and their pets in Dallas, discouraging the feeding of dangerous animals in the area by offering them food is a step in the right direction. This requirement includes individuals’ responsibility of not leaving pet food or uncovered trash outside overnight.
If enacted, officials hope the new ordinance will educate residents about the potential measures they can take moving forward to help do their part in keeping coyotes at bay in Dallas.
