If a wildlife encounter occurs, please report it to the HOA office through our Wildlife Encounter Reporting Form and to the Arizona Game and Fish hotline. If you require immediate assistance, contact Main Gate Security or call 911.
HOA Office: 480-342-9174
Estancia Main Gate Security 480-585-6198
Arizona Game and Fish Hotline 623-236-7201
Javelina are highly adaptive desert animals and are best managed by reducing attractants. Our goal should be to limit or avoid planting vegetation that attracts them. Landscapes rich in moisture-bearing plants—such as prickly pear, agave, aloe vera, yucca, and mesquite (which yield seed pods in the summer)—provide both nourishment and hydration. In neighborhoods like ours, these plants can unintentionally invite wildlife closer to our homes. Compounding this issue, Arizona law strictly prohibits the feeding of wildlife, including indirect feeding through accessible food or water sources. These actions can condition animals to return repeatedly.
Javelina often perceive pets—especially dogs—as predators similar to coyotes. Because of their poor eyesight, they may not distinguish between a household pet and a threat. This can cause them to rely on instinct and react defensively. Accordingly, pets must remain leashed and under control at all times. Residents should avoid approaching javelina whenever possible. If a confrontation cannot be avoided, non-lethal deterrents such as loud noises (e.g., air horns), water guns with a 50/50 mix of water and ammonia are recommended, as well as, pepper or bear spray may be effective.
The Arizona Game and Fish Department supports hazing javelina to increase their avoidance of people and pets; however, they do not support the discharge of firearms or the killing of javelina. The Board carefully reviewed local regulations within Scottsdale and reminds residents that while firearm possession may be lawful, the discharge of a firearm within city limits is generally prohibited, except in cases of immediate self-defense. Arizona law further restricts discharge near occupied structures and imposes full liability for resulting harm. Additionally, javelina are classified as big game animals, and harming them outside of lawful hunting or true self-defense carries significant legal consequences. In short, the HOA does not condone the use of firearms as a deterrent. If a firearm is discharged for self-defense, the individual assumes the resulting liability.
The Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center
The javelinas that have been removed from Estancia have been relocated to the Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center. They are being held there until a large enough herd is ready to be released back into their natural habitat.
The Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center has been rescuing Arizona mammals for over 30 years and is located just 15 minutes east of Estancia. They take in animals that have lost their habitat or are found injured, orphaned, or abandoned. They rehabilitate and release the animals into the wild whenever possible, but offer a lifelong sanctuary to the animals who cannot return to their natural habitats. They also offer tours and volunteer opportunities to educate and inspire people to take care of the local wildlife and habitats.
If you are interested in learning more about Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center or wish to support their conservation efforts, please click the link below:
