Native Texan Wildlife

If you find a wild animal in need, please call Animal Services at 972-547-7445 or find a licensed rehabilitation specialist to assist at AHNow.org

Born to be Wild

McKinney is known for its nature and various wildlife call the city home. From sociable squirrels to curious coyotes, we encounter animals in parks, backyards, roads and rooftops. After all, they're Texans, too!

Wildlife populations adapt their behavior to urban environments. Although these neighbors were born to be wild, with a little care, we can thrive together.

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Living with Our Wildlife Neighbors

Baby Animals

If you find a baby animal on your property, please remember a baby's best chance for survival is with its mother, so the usual answer is to leave the baby alone. Check out our flowchart for detailed options.

Native Texan Animal Encounter. I found a baby Native Texan. Now what?! Opens in new window

Fall / Winter Animals

May be spotted in the McKinney area between September and February

Spring Animals

May be spotted in the McKinney area between March and May

Summer Animals

May be spotted in the McKinney area between June and August

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Help Keep Native Texans Wild

General Deterrence Tips

  • Remove food sources
    • Bird feeders can attract more than birds. Squirrels and raccoons also love these treats.
    • Don't leave water or food for pets out overnight.
    • Plant gardens away from the house.
    • Secure your garbage, especially overnight.
  • Do not feed wildlife human or pet food
    • Feeding them makes them more aggressive due to the loss of natural fear of humans.
    • Feeding them increases potential attacks on people and pets
    • Affects natural diet, leading to health problems
    • Wildlife may have harmful diseases to humans
  • Don't give wildlife a place to live
    • Trim overgrown plants (trees, bushes, grass & weeds)
    • Reduce clutter around your home
  • Fence your yard; make it harder for wild animals to get close to your home & pets
  • Keep an eye on pets, especially small ones that may be seen as prey
  • Make some noise before getting into your car & starting it. This may help to startle away any animals that may have curled up under the hood.
  • Work together with your neighbors on deterrent strategies.

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Bobcat Tips

  • Scare off bobcats in your yard by spraying them with a garden hose, making loud noises, and waving your arms. If the animal is confined, open a gate and let it leave on its own.
  • Bobcats are skilled climbers that can jump up to 12 feet high. Close any openings in fences, keep small pets indoors, and secure domestic animals, such as chickens and rabbits, in enclosures with sturdy roofs.
  • If you see a bobcat while walking or running, scare it away by making loud noises or carrying something to throw near it, such as a rock or tennis ball. It is safer for us, our pets, and the bobcat if they remain fearful of humans.

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Coyote Tips

  • Coyotes are opportunistic eaters, consuming plants and small animals such as rats, mice, squirrels, and rabbits. They can also feed on garbage, fruit, bird seed, and pet food when food is scarce.
  • Coyotes can contract rabies from other animals. Keep pets at a safe distance.
  • Trapping and poisoning coyotes are not effective solutions for human-coyote conflicts. Follow General Deterrence Tips to discourage coyotes from staying in your area.

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Egret Tips

  • Egrets are federally protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918
  • These birds like to nest high in trees with overlapping limbs
  • Things you can do ahead of egret migratory season to deter nesting:
    • Remove any remaining nests from last year
    • Trim your trees (only on private property) or coordinate with your HOA for landscaping services
    • Install "scary eye" balloons or streamers in trees, but be mindful of code ordinances and neighbors.

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Native Texans: Egrets