Seasonal Reminder: Staying Safe Around Desert Wildlife

Published on July 21, 2026

Maricopa, AZ – As monsoon season continues and temperatures remain high, residents may notice more wildlife moving through neighborhoods near open desert and wash areas. Sightings of coyotes and bobcats are not uncommon this time of year, while mountain lion sightings remain rare.

These animals are typically just passing through as they search for water and food sources or as young wildlife explore new territory. Most encounters are brief and do not pose a threat to people or pets.

The City of Maricopa encourages residents to take a few simple precautions to help keep people, pets, and wildlife safe:

If You Encounter a Mountain Lion or Similar Animal: 

• Do Not Run – Sudden movement may trigger a chase response. Stay calm and stand your ground. 
• Make Yourself Look Bigger – Raise your arms, open your jacket, or lift small children to appear larger. 
• Maintain Eye Contact – Never turn your back. Slowly back away while facing the animal. 
• Make Noise – Speak firmly, shout, clap your hands, or use a whistle or air horn to scare it off. 
• Do Not Approach – Never try to get closer, take photos, or scare the animal away.

To Help Prevent Wildlife from Coming Near Your Home:

• Do Not Feed Wildlife – Even unintentionally, like leaving pet food or water outside, can attract predators. 
• Secure Trash and Pet Food – Use wildlife-resistant containers and bring pet food indoors. 
• Supervise Pets – Keep dogs and cats indoors or on a leash, especially during dawn, dusk, and nighttime hours. 
• Install Motion-Sensor Lights – These can help deter animals from approaching your home. 
• Trim Landscaping – Overgrown bushes and shrubs provide hiding spots for animals. 
• Protect Outdoor Animals – Use secure, overhead fencing for chickens and small livestock. 

Talk to Your Kids:

• Teach children not to approach wild animals and to come indoors right away if they see one. 
• Encourage them to always tell a trusted adult about any sightings. 

Reporting Wildlife Sightings

Residents who encounter wildlife acting aggressively toward people should contact the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s 24-hour Communications Center at 623-236-7201.

If a wild animal has attacked or bitten a person, call 911 immediately. Anyone who has been bitten should seek medical attention from a qualified healthcare provider as soon as possible.

For wildlife concerns in neighborhoods that are not an immediate emergency, residents may also contact the Maricopa Police Department’s non-emergency line at 520-568-3673.