Wildlife in the area

Bear in Lynnwood 2019
Photo by Natalie Covate, Lynnwood Today

Our natural areas, greenbelts, and connected habitats support a wide range of wildlife. Coyotes, raccoons, opossums, and owls are common, and on rare occasions, residents may also see larger animals such as black bears, cougars, or bobcats moving through the area.

These animals are a natural part of our environment, and with simple precautions, we can coexist with them safely.

In most cases, seeing wildlife—whether a coyote trotting down a trail or a bear moving between green spaces—is no cause for alarm and does not need to be reported. Wildlife generally avoids people and will continue on if not provided with food or opportunities to linger.

However, to help protect you, your children, and your pets, it is important to keep a few things in mind.

Avoid attracting wildlife

The best strategy for preventing conflicts with wildlife is to remove food sources and reduce opportunities for animals to become comfortable around neighborhoods.

• Don’t feed wildlife.
• Keep pet food indoors and away from pet doors.
• Keep garbage cans secured and barbecue areas clean.
• Don’t give wildlife access to garbage, compost, or fallen fruit.
• Prevent the buildup of seed or food under bird feeders.
• Keep dogs on a leash in public areas.
• Keep pets—especially small dogs and cats—indoors, particularly from dusk to dawn.
• Enclose poultry, rabbits, and other small outdoor animals in secure pens and shelters.
• In areas where wildlife are frequently seen or heard, don’t leave small children unattended.
• Stay away from den and nest sites and enjoy wildlife from a safe distance.
• Leave baby animals alone. They often appear unattended, but a parent is usually nearby.

If you encounter wildlife

Most animals, including coyotes, will try to avoid humans. If a coyote or other wildlife doesn’t immediately run away when it sees you, pick up small children or pets. Make yourself look larger and act assertively. Shout, wave your arms, or throw small stones toward (not at) the animal. Do not run.

A wild animal that does not respond to hazing may have become too familiar with people due to access to food.

When to report wildlife behavior

If any wild animal—coyote, bear, cougar, or otherwise—acts aggressively, appears sick or injured, or behaves in an unusual way, contact the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s (WDFW) North Puget Sound office at 425‑775‑1311. In an emergency, dial 911.

WDFW manages wildlife statewide. Our cities do not conduct trapping, relocation, or lethal removal of wildlife. Only in extreme cases of aggressive behavior will WDFW take action to remove an animal.

More information on coyotes is available from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.