Can I still control rodents without using anticoagulant rodenticides?

Throughout California, the use of poison baits to control rodents has injured and killed hundreds or thousands of wild animals and pets. Predatory and scavenging birds and mammals like owls, hawks, raccoons, bobcats, mountain lions, foxes, skunks and coyotes that eat dead or dying rodents that have consumed these baits will also be poisoned. Pets will also eat dead or dying rodents and unprotected bait. More information on rodenticides.

Are there benefits to having coyotes live near Davis?

Coyotes are considered an apex predator which contribute to maintaining the health of an ecological system. Apex predators help to regulate the populations of other species that, in high numbers, may harm the ecological function of local habitat areas or become a nuisance to adjacent residential areas. Such species include hares, rabbits, mice, rats, raccoons, skunks, feral cats, wild turkeys and Canada geese. More information about coyotes. 

Are coyotes a threat to my safety or the safety of my family and pets?

Coyotes naturally view humans as a threat and avoid them. Coyotes that have habituated to human presence via direct (handouts) or indirect (pets, garbage, pet food, etc.) feeding may become more aggressive toward humans. Such animals require hazing (i.e. scare conditioning) to reestablish their fear of humans. Coyotes that become overly aggressive and/ or attack humans need to be lethally removed.

Coyotes view small pets as potential food and will enter urban areas in search of food when resources are available. Such activity is especially common near the urban to open space interface. Pet owners who are concerned about their pet being eaten by a coyote (or killed by a car or another wild or domestic animal) should take precaution by not allowing their pets to roam freely at night. More information about coyotes.

Can I trap and relocate wildlife from my home?

State law permits property owners to trap wildlife on their property if they are causing property damage. State law prohibits the relocation of trapped wildlife. Trapped animals must either be euthanized or released in the same location.

What is the Barn Owl Nest Box Program and how do I participate?

The Barn Owl Nest Box Program is a city-wide effort to support the local barn owl population and benefit from the natural pest control they provide. Resident's wishing to participate in the program may build or purchase (see below) and donate a barn owl box and have the city install it into a suitable city owned tree near their residence.

 

 Build Your Own Box - Box design 1, Box design 2

Purchase a Box - Suggested Retailer

Contact the Public Works Utilities and Operations Department for more information. 

When can I visit the Davis Wetlands?

The Davis Wetlands are accessible to the public during the following times:

 

• September 1 - February 15: Mondays only from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• February 16 - August 31: Daily from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Docent lead tours of the wetlands are available through Yolo Basin Foundation.

What should I do if I encounter sick, injured or abandoned wildlife?

Sick or injured wildlife should be approached with caution. Animals that are sick or injured are particularly defensive and likely to bite if handled. Bites from wildlife are painful and may transmit harmful diseases. Depending on the species of animal, the following contacts should be able to lend assistance:  

• Skunks and foxes - Yolo County Animal Services
• Bats -NorCal Bat Rescue
• Hawks, owls, or other birds-of-prey - California Raptor Center
• Everything else - Wildlife Care Association

Is it abandoned? Often times an "orphaned" animal is safe, but perhaps a bit out of place.

Was the animal brought to you by a pet? Is it naked and shaking? If yes, it likely needs help. Otherwise, leave the youngster alone and let it’s parent(s) provide the best care possible.   

How do I support bats? 

World-wide, bats are in decline from shrinking habitat, persecution, pesticides, and disease. Supporting bats is easy and beneficial. Bats eats tons of pest insects each night including mosquitoes, and moths that damage crops. Bat guano (feces) makes a great garden fertilizer. The best way to support bats is to build and install a bat box and not use insecticides in the yard. 

Build a Bat Box - Design 1

Purchase a Bat Box - Many options are available via online shopping. It's important to ensure the boxes are at least 24" tall by 16"wide. The box should not contain fabric or mesh in the design. 

When is the best time to do tree work to prevent without harming wildlife?

Ideally, tree pruning should be scheduled to occur outside of the breeding season. The breeding season typically occurs from Feb 1 thru Aug 31, annually. However, there may be a need to prune trees during the nesting season. Always check before you cut. Check the tree from top to bottom, including the main trunk. Look for stick nests, holes in the trunk, and bird activity. If you see a nest or cavity, wait to prune until after the breeding season. If you are uncertain as to whether or not something is a nest, err on the side of caution and wait to prune until after the breeding season. The City's Ecological Resources Program Manager is also available to help make a nest determination.

How do I dispose of a dead animal found on my property?

Dead animals under 10 pounds can be placed in a bag and disposed of in the refuse bin. Larger animals may be buried or taken to Yolo County Animal Services in Woodland. Two or more dead animals at the same location may be an indicator of a disease outbreak or environmental hazard. Please report such occurrences to the City of Davis Ecological Resources Program Manager.

What types of milkweed are safe for the monarch butterfly?

Most milkweed species are ok. However, tropical milkweed (Asclepias curassavica) - an invasive species - can be harmful to monarchs. Always plant native milkweed species around your property to ensure monarchs have the best chance at recovery and survival.