Call the Police if You See One of These Outside Your House in Texas!

The Lone Star State boasts a diverse and vibrant ecosystem, from the bustling metropolises of Houston and Dallas to the sprawling plains of the Hill Country and the sun-drenched beaches of South Padre Island. This rich tapestry of landscapes naturally attracts a wide variety of wildlife, some more welcome than others.

This article aims to be a helpful resource for Texas residents who might encounter unfamiliar creatures outside their homes. We’ll discuss some common (and sometimes not-so-common) Texas wildlife species, focusing on those that may require a call to the authorities.

When to Call the Police for Wildlife in Texas

Before diving into specific species, it’s crucial to understand when encountering wildlife necessitates police involvement. Here are some general guidelines:

• Aggressive behavior: Any animal displaying aggressive tendencies towards humans or pets is a cause for concern. This includes hissing, growling, baring teeth, or actively approaching people or pets in a threatening manner.
• Injury or illness: If you encounter a wild animal that appears injured or sick, contacting animal control or a wildlife rehabilitation center is the best course of action. Police involvement might be necessary in some cases, particularly for dangerous animals.
• Protected species: Texas has a long list of protected animals, including some venomous snakes and certain bird species. If you encounter a protected animal on your property, it’s best to leave it alone and contact the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD).

Common Texas Wildlife Encounters (Not Necessarily Requiring Police)

Texas is home to a fascinating array of wildlife. Here’s a look at some commonly encountered species:

• Armadillos: These fascinating, armor-plated mammals are a familiar sight in Texas. While they may root up your yard searching for grubs and insects, they pose no threat to humans or pets.
• Raccoons: These intelligent, masked bandits are notorious for raiding trash cans. While generally not aggressive, they can carry diseases like rabies. Secure your trash cans and avoid confrontation.
• Opossums: Often mistaken for rats due to their long, naked tails, opossums are actually marsupials. They play a vital role in controlling insect populations and pose no real threat.
• Coyotes: These intelligent canines are becoming increasingly common in urban areas. While typically shy, they can be attracted to easy food sources like pet food left outdoors. Keep your pets secure and avoid leaving food outside.
• Deer: Texas has a large deer population, with white-tailed deer being the most common. While beautiful to observe, deer can cause property damage and pose a risk to drivers. Report any deer-vehicle collisions to the proper authorities.

Potentially Dangerous Texas Wildlife (When to Consider Calling the Police)

While most wildlife encounters in Texas are harmless, some species require caution or even police intervention. Here are some examples:

• Mountain Lions: These large predators are rarely encountered by humans, but sightings have been increasing in recent years. If you see a mountain lion, do not approach it – back away slowly and make loud noises to scare it off. If attacked, fight back aggressively.
• Javelina: These small, pig-like creatures have sharp tusks and can be aggressive if provoked. Leave them alone and admire them from a distance.
• Bobcats: These solitary predators are smaller than mountain lions but can still inflict serious injuries. Give them a wide berth and avoid attracting them with potential prey (rodents, small pets).

Venomous Snakes in Texas

Texas is home to several venomous snake species, including:

• Cottonmouth Water Moccasin: Found near water sources, these thick-bodied snakes have a distinctive cottonmouth marking on their underside.
• Rattlesnakes: Several rattlesnake species inhabit Texas, easily identified by their rattle. If you hear the distinctive rattle, slowly back away and avoid provoking the snake.
• Coral Snake: These brightly colored snakes are less common but highly venomous. Their red bands touch yellow bands, while non-venomous mimics have red touching black.

Encountering a Venomous Snake

If you encounter a venomous snake, the most important thing is to stay calm and back away slowly. Do not attempt to approach, handle, or corner the snake.

Call 911 only if the snake is inside your home or building and poses an immediate threat. In most cases, animal control or a wildlife removal service can safely handle the situation.

Potentially Rabid Animals

Rabies is a deadly virus that can infect any mammal, including humans. While vaccination has significantly reduced rabies cases in domestic animals, wild animals can still pose a threat. Here’s what to look for:

• Disorientation: Rabid animals may appear confused or disoriented.
• Unusual aggression: Healthy wild animals typically avoid humans. Unprovoked aggression is a red flag.
• Excessive drooling: Rabid animals may foam at the mouth due to difficulty swallowing.
• Paralysis: Animals in the later stages of rabies may exhibit paralysis in the limbs or facial muscles.

Encountering a Potentially Rabid Animal

If you encounter an animal exhibiting any of the signs above, do not approach it. Call animal control or the police immediately.

Here are some additional tips for preventing rabies exposure:

• Vaccinate your pets: Regular rabies vaccination for dogs and cats is crucial.
• Secure your trash cans: Wild animals may be attracted to food scraps, increasing the risk of rabies transmission.
• Minimize wildlife attractants: Eliminate potential food sources like bird feeders or overflowing compost bins around your property.
• Supervise children and pets outdoors: This is especially important in areas with a high concentration of wildlife.

Keeping Your Property Wildlife-Free

There are several steps you can take to discourage wild animals from taking up residence near your home:

• Secure your property: Seal any holes or cracks in your foundation or exterior walls that could serve as entry points for animals.
• Trim vegetation: Overgrown bushes and trees can provide shelter for unwanted guests. Keep your landscaping tidy, particularly near your house.
• Store food properly: Keep pet food indoors and avoid leaving trash cans overflowing or unsecured.
• Light up your yard: Motion-sensor lights can deter nocturnal animals from venturing near your home.

Responsible Wildlife Watching

Texas offers fantastic opportunities for wildlife watching. Here are some tips for enjoying these encounters responsibly:

• Maintain a safe distance: Use binoculars or a telephoto lens to observe wildlife from afar. Avoid approaching animals too closely, especially mothers with young.
• Respect their habitat: Stay on designated trails and avoid disturbing the natural environment.
• Leave no trace: Pack out all trash and avoid leaving any food scraps behind.
• Support conservation efforts: Consider volunteering for wildlife organizations or donating to conservation causes.

Conclusion

Texas’ diverse wildlife adds to the state’s unique charm. By understanding the different species and their behaviors, we can coexist peacefully and appreciate the wonders of nature. Remember, in most cases, wildlife encounters can be managed calmly and safely. However, if you encounter an aggressive animal, a venomous snake, or a potentially rabid creature, don’t hesitate to call the police or animal control. With a little knowledge and respect for these wild neighbors, we can all ensure a safe and harmonious environment for humans and wildlife alike.

Joeal Bright

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Joeal Bright is a committed journalist at WVPrepBB.com, focusing on USA and crime news. With a knack for in-depth reporting and a dedication to delivering accurate and timely information, Joeal keeps readers informed about crucial national events and crime stories. His work on WVPrepBB.com is essential for those seeking comprehensive coverage and insightful analysis of current events in the United States.

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