Wildlife

Broomfield is home to a variety of wild animals. Some have adapted to suburban life and live in yards, storm sewers, and chimneys. Broomfield's large open spaces and city parks can be an inviting place for coyotes, foxes, raccoons, and other animals to forage for food. This includes many different types of food ranging from garbage to small mammals and birds. Unfortunately, they may also prey on domestic cats or dogs so it's always a good idea to monitor your pet while outside, even if you aren't aware of anything in your area.

Take these precautions to help ensure the safety of your pet:  

  • Do not leave pet food or garbage outside
  • Do not intentionally or unintentionally feed wildlife
  • Do not leave dogs or cats outside unattended (coyotes can jump over a 6-foot fence)
  • Make sure your pets' vaccinations are current
  • Pets should be leashed and attended when off of the owner's property
  • Use extra caution dusk through dawn
  • Avoid known or potential den sites and areas of thick vegetation
  • Do not allow dogs to "play" with coyotes or foxes
  • Consider utilizing a covered dog run

If confronted by a coyote, persons should shout or make some other loud noise to frighten the animal away. For additional information, please refer to Your Guide to Avoiding Human-Coyote Conflicts. You may call Colorado Parks and Wildlife if you have concerns or complaints regarding wildlife.
 
In 2010, Broomfield developed a policy that addresses guidelines for wildlife issues and strategic actions to promote safe coexistence with wildlife in the community. The Coexistence with Wildlife Policy addresses coyotes, incorporates the Prairie Dog Policy, and also includes brief summaries of information about other urban wildlife species.  For more information, please visit the Broomfield Open Space and Trails or Colorado Parks and Wildlife  web pages.

WILDLIFE RESOURCES

Colorado Parks and Wildlife
303-291-7227		Urban Wildlife Rescue
303-340-4911
Greenwood Wildlife Rehabilitation Center
303-545-5849		Wildlife Masters
303-464-5554

How to properly dispose of deceased wildlife:
        1.  Wear gloves when disposing of dead animals.
        2. Use a long-handled shovel to pick up the dead animal.
        3. Place the plastic bag on the ground.
        4. Using the shovel, place the animal in the plastic bag.
        5. Tie a knot in the bag.
        6. Double bag the animal if necessary.
        7. Dispose of the bag in a covered outdoor trash container.