I found a bobcat, javelina, fox or coyote in my yard; what should I do?

According to the Arizona Game and Fish Department, these animals are generally not a threat to humans, but they can be a threat to small pets. Small pets, including cats and small dogs, should not be left outside unattended. In most cases, the wild animals should be left alone. However, if you notice the animal is hanging around quite a bit, aversion tactics should be used. These tactics can include yelling, throwing your arms in the air and even turning a garden hose on the creature.

Here are some other ways to indicate to a wild animal that it is not welcome:

• Be sure there is no wildlife feeding going on in your neighborhood.

• Harass or spray the animal with a hose.

• Shake an aluminum can - such as a cola can -- with pebbles or nuts/bolts in it.

• Repel the animal by putting pepper or Tabasco sauce on specific plants, ammonia bowls where they bed

• Remove any ground cover that the animal may be using as shelter.

• Exclude the animal using fencing or electric fencing. CHECK YOUR LOCAL CITY ORDINANCES FIRST, IF YOU CHOOSE TO DO THIS.