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by Tom Keener
As urban growth encroaches into the prairie and wooded creek areas, habitats for coyotes, bobcats, raccoons and opossums are being destroyed. However, urban environments offer a critical source of food and shelter for displaced wildlife. Smells of steak bones, discarded meats, and pet foods attract these animals. Are bobcats and coyotes a threat to humans or pets? What can you do to protect your home, children and pets? Hear Urban Wildlife Biologist Jessica Alderson at 7 p.m., Thursday, July 16, Allen Public Library, 300 N. Allen Drive.
Ms. Alderson’s discussion will address facts and myths relating to raccoons, opossums, bobcats, coyotes and mountain lions in an urban environment. Ms. Alderson will provide information on protecting your home, children and pets from local wildlife that have become city dwellers. She will provide tips and illustrations for identifying paw prints, tracking signs of habitation, and will discuss rabies. She encourages questions throughout the presentation.
Ms. Alderson holds a B.S. and M.S. in Wildlife and Fisheries Science from Texas A&M University. Her M.S. focused on the human dimensions aspect of urban wildlife management. She also offers technical guidance on habitat restoration as well as creating wildlife habitats, known as Wildscapes.
"Having an urban wildlife plan for the City of Allen is so important as our city continues to grow, thus running all wildlife out of their natural habitat and into residential areas," Animal Control Supervisor Vikki Francis states.
"Wildlife is good for the environment. These creatures can either enrich a city by bringing a little bit of nature to the hustle and bustle, or they can create a problem. To avoid a possible unpleasant situation, first, start by educating yourself so that you know what to do or not to do if wildlife shows up at your house. It is important to know which animals reside in your area and to learn about them, their habits, their nesting areas and doing what you can to keep them in their natural environment."
Allen Parks Foundation President Jim Waldbauer declares, "We all know that urban sprawl has affected natural habitats and wildlife in our area. This program is a great way to hear from an expert about dealing with wildlife in our urban environment. The Allen Parks Foundation is proud to be a partner in making this unique program available to Allen citizens."
This free program is sponsored by the Friends of the Allen Public Library Bach to Books, Keep Allen Beautiful, Allen Animal Control and Allen Parks Foundation. For information, call 214.509.4911.
Tom Keener is the cultural arts coordinator with the Allen Public Library. |
