h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

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Coyotes Forced To Find New Homes In Local Neighborhoods
Bianca Castro

Badger Ranch will offer a comfortable way of living for Central Texans. But as trees are knocked down and roads are paved, the original inhabitants are forced to high tail it out of there and possibly into your backyard.

The recent construction has pushed coyotes into new territories, such as Cameron Andrew's family backyard. Andrew's in-laws live in the neighborhood directly next to Badger Ranch and he says that coyotes are a familiar sight in his backyard.

However, the problem is not a new one for Woodway. About two months ago, assistant police chief Robert Smith received a number of reports of coyote sightings around the city. After extensive research, Smith found what he believes is the best solution to the coyote problem, education.

Smith has several recommendations to prevent coyotes from wandering into your yard. First, don't leave pet food out over night. Second, secure trash can lids. Also, keep all small pets inside when not outside. Finally, spay or neuter your dog

If you do encounter a coyote, Smith recommends not to do anything. Don't pet it or walk towards it, instead, leave it alone.

Andrews isn't bothered too much by the coyotes. He understands that they'll move on--eventually.

keep all small pets inside when not outside?

Yeah. You gotta wonder.