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Wildlife in the Village of Crete

Wildlife in the Village of Crete

Crete Wildlife
The following are native to the Crete area and may be in great abundance:

  • Bats
  • Beavers
  • Birds (multiple varieties)
  • Coyotes
  • Deer
  • Foxes
  • Ground Hogs
  • Ground Squirrels
  • Hawks
  • Muskrats
  • Opossums
  • Owls
  • Rabbits
  • Raccoons
  • Skunks
  • Snakes (Gardner and King:
  • Both Non-Poisonous)
  • Squirrels
  • Turkeys

In addition to these animals, the Village of Crete has had coyote sightings also. Coyotes generally avoid humans; however, the presence of a free buffet in the form of pet food, compost, or trash can lure coyotes into yards and create the impression that these places are perfect feeding areas. Without the lure of food or other attractants, their visits will usually be brief and rare. But a coyote who finds food in 1 yard may learn to search for food in others.

Pet Safety

Free-roaming or unattended pets, especially cats, and sometimes small dogs, may attract coyotes into neighborhoods. The best way to minimize risk to pets is to never leave them outside unattended. For cats, this means either always keeping them indoors, or letting them outside only under your supervision wearing a harness/ leash or in a secure enclosure. Always walk dogs on a leash, and attend to them when they’re outside.

No incidents have been reported within the Village, however, according to the Department of Natural Resources incidents that have occurred generally involve coyotes who are either accustomed to people (usually due to wildlife feeding), or coyotes who are protecting their territory, their mate (during breeding season, January through March), or their pups (during pup season, April through August).

Remember in many cases, we have entered into wildlife’s territory, or invited it into our homes through our own actions. Mutual respect and knowledge can go a long way in coexisting alongside wildlife.

Illinois Department of Natural Resources

All wildlife comes under the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Rules and Regulations. IDNR’s policy is “Learn to Live with Wildlife”. If you have any wildlife questions or concerns, please: