Tigard: Coyotes are in Cook Park

As Tigard grows and subdivisions impact wildlife habitat, wild animals are often attracted to live in open space areas, parks, undeveloped parcels of land, river bottoms and on or near bodies of water.  In most situations humans and wildlife can co-exist.

Coyotes share Cook Park with humans and other wildlife. Coyotes have not attacked any humans in Cook Park, but they have startled a few early morning joggers. However, when an area cat goes missing, coyotes are quick to be blamed. Officials think coyotes are keeping the non-native nutria in check, resulting in less damage to streams and ponds. Coyotes will eat just about anything and are attracted to compost piles and pet food.

Coyotes and other urban wildlife, such as raccoons, skunks, opossums, and squirrels, are becoming quite comfortable living with humans. Urban wildlife has enough food to survive and homeowners are discouraged from feeding them. This can cause higher numbers of animals than would naturally occur, and spread disease as they come in closer contact with each other. The increased critter population puts pets at risk and increases the nuisancee factor to humans.

For advice on how to trap and remove unwanted guests in and near your home, call the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife at 503-657-2000.

Wayne B. Pruner is a Realtor® at Oregon First, who works in the Portland and Tigard, Oregon area. He is ready to help you with all your real estate needs. His phone number is 503-891-0795. Here are links to his real estate website and his real estate blog.