Coexisting With Wildlife

SWCC’s Emergency Rescue Line: 480-433-5656

As human development expands and habitats change, encounters with wild animals are inevitable, but understanding and respect can turn potential conflicts into coexistence.

Through education, outreach, and hands-on programs, SWCC teaches communities how to live alongside native animals. From backyard encounters to neighborhood wildlife sightings, we provide practical tips and guidance to keep both people and wildlife safe.

Our work doesn’t stop there. Every animal rescued and rehabilitated at SWCC is an opportunity to educate the public, inspire empathy, and demonstrate the important role humans play in protecting Arizona’s wildlife. By combining care, education, and community engagement, we help wildlife thrive while fostering a culture of coexistence across the state.

If you have a wildlife question that is not addressed here, please contact [email protected].

Injured baby fox with blue leg bandage lying on blanket.

Wildlife Coexistence Resources

Found Injured or Sick Wildlife?

Click view/download for tips on how to keep yourself and the animal safe.

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Wildlife in Urban Areas- Humane Hazing Techniques

We receive many requests to relocate wildlife from homes and neighborhoods. Relocation is only considered when animals pose a risk to people or property.

Often, the best solution is to use humane hazing methods to encourage the animal to leave.

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Found Orphaned, Injured, or Sick Baby Animal?

Spring and summer mark wildlife “baby season.” If you find orphaned or injured baby animals, it’s important to know when (and when not) to intervene.

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Coexisting with Coyotes

Coyotes play an important role in our ecosystems, and with the right precautions, people and wildlife can share our neighborhoods safely.

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Common Wildlife Q&A’s

-If the animal is not acting sick or aggressive, give it space, it will likely move on.

-Secure food sources like pet food, garbage, and birdseed to avoid attracting wildlife.

-Keep pets indoors or supervised, especially at dawn and dusk.

-To deter a wild animal immediately, make loud noises by banging pots, clapping your hands, or shouting.

-If an animal appears sick or injured, call Southwest Wildlife’s Emergency Rescue Line or another licensed wildlife rehabilitator.

-Wildlife may be attracted to food, water, or shelter.scc

-Food sources: unsecured trash, pet food, bird feeders, fruit trees, and gardens.

-Water: pools, ponds, pet water bowls, and leaky hoses.

-Shelter: brush piles, open sheds, decks, and crawl spaces.

-To discourage visits, remove attractants and use deterrents like motion-activated lights or sprinklers

-Do not attempt to handle the animal unless it is in immediate danger.

-Keep people and pets away and note the animal’s location.

-Call Southwest Wildlife’s Emergency Rescue Line or another licensed wildlife rehabilitator for guidance.

-Many young animals are left alone while their parents forage or hunt.

-Unless visibly injured or in danger, observe from a distance before intervening.

-If in doubt, call Southwest Wildlife’s Emergency Rescue Line at 480 433-5656 or another wildlife professional before taking action.

-Supervise pets outdoors, especially at dawn and dusk.

-Keep cats indoors and dogs leashed.

-Feed your pets inside, or remove uneaten pet food between feedings.

-When walking your dog, never use retractable leashes, as they allow your dog to get too far away from you.

-Do not feed wildlife, and make sure your neighbors are not providing food either. Feeding will only make the wild animals more comfortable around humans. This can be dangerous for both humans and wildlife

-Since September 21, 2006, feeding wildlife is illegal in Maricopa and Pima counties, Arizona, except for birds and tree squirrels.

-Stay calm and give the snake space.

-Put children and/or pets inside. If you want the snake removed, call the Phoenix Herpetological Society at 602-550-1090, or your local Fire Department.

-To snake-proof your backyard in Phoenix, AZ, prioritize eliminating hiding spots, maintaining a clean yard, and consider snake-proof fencing.

–Keep grass short: Mow regularly and remove fallen leaves, branches, and debris, as these provide cover for snakes.

–Trim bushes and trees: Prune shrubs and trees, especially around the base, to prevent snakes from hiding underneath.

–Remove rock piles: Avoid using large rocks in landscaping, as they can provide shelter.

–Get rid of coiled hoses: Use hose boxes or store hoses neatly to prevent them from becoming hiding spots.