TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — Close proximity to Sonoran Desert wildlife can be part of the charm of living in Tucson and Southern Arizona, but authorities plainly urge residents: Keep your distance.
The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) Tucson has reported multiple sightings of a mangy coyote in the Commerce Park Loop area, west of I-10 between St. Mary's Road and Congress Street.
While its appearance may alarm some, or even tempt them to feed or help the animal, passersby are advised to attempt to scare it away with loud noises.
AZGFD says that simply ignoring coyotes can also lead to a situation where the animals lose their natural fear of humans, emboldening them to visit human-inhabited areas in search of food, water, or shelter.
Wildlife authorities suggest shouting, clapping, and waving large objects as a way to scare off coyotes.
Coyotes can lose their hair as a result of mange, which makes it difficult to control body temperature, according to the AZGFD, but they can survive with the disease for a long time.
Removal or relocation of a coyote is only a priority for the AZGFD in cases of public safety.
Urban encroachment and thesummer heat can draw wild animals into developed areas.
For more information on living with coyotes, visit the Arizona Game and Fish Department website.
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Anne Simmons is the digital executive producer for KGUN 9. Anne got her start in television while still a student at the University of Arizona. Before joining KGUN, she managed multiple public access television stations in the Bay Area and has worked as a video producer in the non-profit sector. Share your story ideas and important issues with Anne by emailing anne.simmons@kgun9.com or by connecting on Instagram, Twitter or LinkedIn.
