TYLER, Texas — *Editorial Note: This story was originally published on November 14, 2019.
East Texans are no stranger to coyote sightings and encounters.
The City of Longview says animal control has received several calls recently regarding coyotes.
According to the city, it is normal this time of year for coyotes to be more active.
"This is an active time for wildlife to be moving around and so I believe we're seeing that right now with some of the coyotes as well as other wildlife," Longview spokesperson Shawn Hara said.
However, some residents in the Wildwood subdivision in Longview, say they have seen an increase in the coyote population in their neighborhood.
"The thought of just leaving your dog outdoors or having a doggie door like so many of us do is not even an option," Lisa Peevey, Longview resident and manager of the Wildwood Homeowners Association, said.
Peevey says many of her neighbors have called or emailed her regarding their pets going missing or attacked by the coyotes in their neighborhood. She said some have spotted them walking in front of their properties late at night.
"People are feeling like they're trapped in their own homes," Peevy explained. "If it's 40 degrees and it's raining outside, and it's 11 o'clock at night, you have to go out there and stand with your dog while you let him out for the night."
Hara says the city is are aware and are addressing the issue.
"What are our animal control has been doing is they've been in contact with some other wildlife agencies in Texas and talking to them about any usual activity and what is the best way to hand things moving forward," Hara said.
The city has set out tips for homeowners and best prevention methods:
- Keep small pets inside overnight.
- If you encounter a coyote, please notify Animal Control.
- Please don't leave any food outside overnight.
To reach Longview Animal Control call 903-237-1290.