Wildlife
Seabrook has experienced significant growth in recent years, leading to increased demand for city services including Animal Control. As development expands into native habitats, wildlife encounters in residential areas have become more common.
Residential Impact
New homes and apartments near wildlife habitats can lead to increased wildlife presence in our community. If you encounter a wild animal, contact Animal Control promptly.
Safety Tips
Avoid Approaching or Feeding Wildlife
Keep a safe distance and refrain from feeding wild animals. Avoid leaving pet food outside at night.
Report Unusual Behavior
If an animal behaves strangely, contact Animal Control at (281) 291-5644.
Appreciating Wildlife
Wildlife is an integral part of Texas heritage and adds to our community's natural beauty. Enjoy observing them from a distance; they typically avoid human interaction when left undisturbed.
Nuisance Wildlife
You may encounter various wildlife species in Seabrook, including coyotes, Muscovy ducks, wild hogs, deer, alligators, snakes, and diverse birds listed on the Texas Coastal Birding Trail. While most are harmless when left alone, animals like coyotes, wild hogs, and Muscovy ducks can become nuisances. Learn more about these species and measures to mitigate nuisances below.
For more information or assistance, contact Seabrook Animal Control at (281) 291-5644.
Reports of alligator sightings are common in Seabrook, especially around the Pine Gully Channel. While it may be nerve-racking to see an alligator, it is important not to panic. Please review the information below. If you believe you have encountered a nuisance alligator, report it to Seabrook Animal Control at (281) 291-5644.
Identifying Nuisance Alligators
Proximity to Homes or Structures
If an alligator leaves the banks of a water body and spends time near homes or other structures, it is considered a nuisance.
Approaching Humans
If an alligator comes straight toward you or out of the water, report it to Seabrook Animal Control.
Behavior Around Pets
Keep pets on a leash and under control. Alligators may see pets as prey. In areas with alligator sightings, keep pets inside a fenced area or indoors for a few days.
Do Not Move Alligators
In Roadways
If you see an alligator in the roadway, do not attempt to move it. Notify Seabrook Animal Control so it can be handled safely.
Swimming Areas
If you see a large alligator in a swimming hole or pond, do not swim with it. Although alligator attacks in Texas are rare, they can happen.
Fishing Precautions
Fishing Lures
Alligators may pursue top-water fishing lures, but this does not constitute a threat to humans. Most alligators can be easily scared away from boats or fishing lures.
Important Information
Stay Calm
Do not panic if you see an alligator.
Keep Distance
If the alligator is not approaching people or posing a threat, wait a few days before contacting Seabrook Animal Control at (281) 291-5644. In spring and summer, alligators are moving to breed and find new habitats. Smaller alligators usually move on in a week or two.
Back Away Slowly
If you hear an alligator hiss, you are too close. Alligators naturally fear humans and usually retreat when approached. If you have a close encounter, back away slowly.
Avoid Feeding Alligators
It is illegal and dangerous to feed alligators. Feeding them makes them more comfortable around humans, creating safety risks.
For questions or concerns about alligators or other problem wildlife, please contact Seabrook Animal Control at (281) 291-5644.
Bats
Information coming soon.
Reports of coyote sightings in Seabrook and the surrounding area are common. The following information is intended to educate residents and assist in identifying and reporting coyote-related issues.
Random Sightings
A random sighting of a coyote is not unusual. There is no need to notify Animal Control unless the coyote creates a nuisance.
Problem Coyotes
Coyotes that have attacked domestic animals are considered a problem and should be reported to Animal Control at (281) 291-5644.
Rabies Risk
Coyotes are considered a high-risk species for carrying rabies. Citizens should avoid contact between coyotes and humans or pets. Report any coyote exhibiting unusual or aggressive behavior immediately by calling 911.
Important Information
Never Feed Coyotes
Feeding wildlife can make large, potentially dangerous animals too comfortable in residential or recreational areas. This can turn them into a nuisance or a safety risk.
Protect Your Pets
- Do not leave pet food unattended outside.
- Keep cats indoors.
- Do not leave dogs unattended outside unless they are securely behind a privacy fence.
- Ensure your pets are on a leash when outside.
For questions or concerns about coyotes or other problem wildlife, please contact Seabrook Animal Control at (281) 291-5644.
It is not uncommon for Seabrook residents to encounter a feral hog, especially in the fall months. Please review the information below to understand how to handle these encounters safely.
Feral Hog Sightings
Random Sightings
Feral hog sightings are not unusual. There is no need to notify Animal Control unless the hog creates a nuisance.
Problem Hogs
Feral hogs that enter neighborhoods (alleys and yards) or threaten or attack people or domestic animals are considered a problem. In these cases, contact Animal Control at (281) 291-5644.
Important Information
Never Feed Feral Hogs
Feeding wildlife can make large, potentially dangerous animals too comfortable in residential or recreational areas. This can turn them into a nuisance or a safety risk.
For questions or concerns about feral hogs or other problem wildlife, please contact Seabrook Animal Control at (281) 291-5644.
The Seabrook City Council recently passed ordinance no. 2012-22, removing Muscovy ducks (Cairina moschata) from protected status within the city. Citizens experiencing problems with Muscovy ducks can now take action for their removal, following guidelines from the U.S. Department of Interior Fish and Wildlife Services.
Important Guidelines
Trapping System
Citizens must use their own baited walk-in traps to capture Muscovy ducks.
No Relocation by Citizens
Do not attempt to relocate trapped birds yourself, as this violates federal regulations. Contact Seabrook Animal Control for proper collection.
No Firearms
Removing ducks with firearms is prohibited. Discharging a firearm within Seabrook city limits is illegal.
Preventing Duck Occupation
Avoid Feeding Ducks
The primary reason for the presence of Muscovy ducks is open food sources. Feeding them encourages habitation and breeding.
If a Muscovy duck is trapped, please contact Seabrook Animal Control at (281) 291-5644 to arrange for proper collection.
Snakes are an essential part of the ecosystem, playing a crucial role in controlling populations of prey such as rodents and maintaining ecological balance.
Encountering Snakes
Stay Calm
Do not panic if you encounter a snake. They do not prey on humans and typically retreat when given the opportunity.
Safety Precautions
If you see a snake, freeze and allow it to retreat. If you must move, back away slowly and carefully. Avoid unnecessary risks with venomous snakes.
Deceased Snakes
Do not pick up or handle dead snakes as they can still inject venom due to muscle contractions.
Habitats
Snakes are commonly found in tall grass, near animal burrows, fallen logs, and creek banks. Exercise caution in these areas.
Snake on Your Property
If you find a snake in your yard or home, contact Seabrook Animal Control at (281) 291-5644. They can safely remove and identify the snake for you.
Emergency Response
If bitten by a snake, call 911 immediately. Describe the snake to the operator and medical personnel for appropriate treatment.
Identifying Venomous Snakes
Caution
Identifying venomous snakes is challenging. Traits like triangular heads or vertical pupils are not reliable indicators.
Common Venomous Snakes in Texas
Examples include Cottonmouths (Water Moccasins), Rattlesnakes, Coral snakes, and Copperheads. Remember, Coral snakes have distinctive red, yellow, and black bands.
Ensure your safety and respect the role of snakes in our environment. For further assistance or inquiries, contact Seabrook Animal Control at (281) 291-5644.