Preventing wildlife conflicts

THE WOODLANDS, Texas – The Woodlands Township is encouraging residents to take an active role in educating themselves and family members in reducing the possibility of a conflict with wildlife. The influx of residential and commercial construction around The Woodlands and the nearing springtime strongly influence the chances for wildlife encounters.

The following is a list of techniques compiled by The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department to prevent such conflicts with wildlife in resident yards:

Do not provide shelter.


At night, latch pet doors that provide easy access for wildlife.

Repair dry rot, gaps in boards, holes, loose soffit vents and gables.

Cover air vent pipes and soffit openings with 1/4" hardware cloth.

Seal openings around pipes with sheet metal or concrete.

Stack firewood at least 18" off the ground and away from walls and fences.

Clean up trash, rubbish and brush piles.

Remove tree branches that provide walkways to the roof.

Remember your pets: Don’t allow pets to run free, and provide them a safe and secure place to sleep at night.

Do not provide food or water.


Remove uneaten pet food before nightfall.

Store pet food and bird seed indoors in secure containers.

Make birdfeeders inaccessible by placing away from adjacent branches.

Keep garbage can lids closed and secured.

Repair leaky faucets that provide water.

Remember the laws when it comes to wildlife protection.


Many mammals are protected by Texas law as furbearing animals.

Many local animals are protected by federal law under the Endangered Species Act.

The Woodlands Covenants prohibit the discharge of weapons in the community.

The Woodlands Township continues to work closely with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department concerning matters of this nature. If you have any questions or would like to report a nuisance wildlife sighting, please call The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation office at 281-210-3900.

For more information on The Woodlands Township, please call 281-210-3800 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.