Animal Control says wildlife calls on the rise this spring

Lately, there has been an increase in wild animal sightings in places they shouldn’t be.

Turkeys, deer and foxes have been spotted in neighborhoods, college campuses and even at the YMCA.

Animal control says they usually receive an increase in call volume around this time of year.

They say it may be a good idea to keep an eye on smaller pets that like to go outside.

Michael Hill walks his dogs often near Holmes Lake on South and S 70th streets.

He says fox activity has been on the rise.

“I see a fox about once or twice a week,” said Hill.

Paul Warner lives in the same area of town and agrees.

“We’ve seen quite a few foxes running around, and actually, between my house and the neighbors house, just last week there was a fox that ran between it as well,” said Warner.

This isn’t the first time reports have come in about foxes creeping closer to residential neighborhoods.

Animal control says they’re not dangerous to humans, but they could do serious damage to your pets.

“When they go outside, we watch them, especially our little four pound Chihuahua, she’s a snack for a lot of things,” said Hill.

One possible explanation for the increase in activity?

Warner says a recent construction project in the area is pushing the foxes elsewhere for food.

“Their habitat is being encroached upon so they’re going to try and live among us so we’re going to see them more often.”

Warner says he hasn’t had an up close encounter yet.

If he does, he knows who to call.

“Make sure you just stay away, let them do their thing, and if notice anything, obviously contact the proper authorities,” said Warner.

Steve Beal with Lincoln Animal Control says the amount of fox sightings in town has increased over the last few years.

There were 60 calls in 2018.

Beal says foxes are more active this time of year.

They give birth in March, and by late April and May, they begin to explore.

They’re curious animals, and opportunistic hunters.

Beal advises people to keep a close watch on those smaller pets.

“Watch your animals when they’re outside because the foxes are about,” said Michael Hill.

If you do see a fox, and would like to report the location, animal control keeps tabs on them.

They say don’t hesitate to call for any reason.

The number to call is 402-441-7900.