At the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch, water is carefully managed through a series of settling ponds – an engineered landscape that has become a refuge for wildlife over the years. Some ponds sit nearly dry this time of year, while others hold just enough water to draw in birds and animals seeking a reliable source.

Among the reeds and shallow pools, I watched two coyotes move with a mix of energy and ease, chasing and circling each other before pausing briefly for a drink.

One of them was instantly familiar: a female we’ve been seeing on and off for over a year or two, marked by a distinct scar across her nose – “Scarface.” She had disappeared during the winter, so seeing her again felt like a quiet return.

The interaction between the two suggested a strong social bond, possibly a mated pair or a parent with a nearly grown offspring.

Coyotes have adapted remarkably well to urban environments, finding what they need in places like Gilbert – water, cover, and a steady supply of small prey like rabbits, ducks, or even a neighborhood chicken.

Even in a landscape shaped by people, moments like this are a reminder that the wild is never far away.