Welcome to Greenbelt Homes (GHI). We pride ourselves on our open green spaces and our wooded, tree-filled areas. These spaces attract different wild animals who call these areas home, opossums, rabbits, raccoons and deer. These animals are enticing for other wild animals such as foxes and coyotes. Yes, there have been fox and coyote sightings in GHI. When humans and wild animals share the same spaces, there can be conflicts. Here are some ideas for co-existence with wildlife:
Do not approach or feed wildlife, and do not leave food open outside.
Use animal proof trash cans.
Keep your yard fence gates closed (however, deer, foxes, and other animals can easily jump or scale fences).
Cover your dryer vent pipes.
Teach children not to disturb bird nests or try to catch baby animals.
Supervise pets when they are outside.
Keep cats indoors, as they may kill small animals and birds and can fall prey for raptors, owls, and coyotes.
Work with Greenbelt Animal Control to set and monitor traps. You will have to work with them to ensure that the animal is not harmed.
It is a misconception that if foxes and other nocturnal animals appear during the day, they are rabid. Foxes, racoons and other animals will search for food and move their young during the day.
If you find wildlife in your yard:
Do not panic.
Do not approach animals to take pictures like wildlife paparazzi.
Wait before moving in the direction of the animals. Keep your pets away. (It can be dangerous for you, your pet and wildlife.) Give wildlife a chance to move away.
If you think something more needs to be done, contact Greenbelt Animal Control (301-474-6124), or a wildlife rescue group, and explain the situation.
Enjoy wildlife but be safe.