As many citizens of Sundre may have noticed, there has been an increase in the number of deer prancing about town.
And while some may think it could be a positive addition to the approaching festive season it can also lead to danger by attracting predators such as cougars and bears.
“This assumption is exactly right, deer can ultimately attract predators in town,” said wildlife biologist Chiara Feder.
She said this is the time of year when there are generally more deer coming into town because it is easier for them to access food.
Feder said generally at the beginning of winter or towards the end of winter, or even when a storm is coming, are times when deer will most likely come into town.
The reason is because the snow melts faster in town, making it easier for them to access vegetation underneath the blankets of snow, she said.
Feder said this brings a challenge of keeping deer away during this time of year, especially because one of the primary attractors is road salt.
Deer eat flowers, grass, grains, bird mixes, and hay. They also like to chew on crabapple trees.
There are a few things that can be done to avoid unwanted animal encounters. Citizens should not leave bird feeders out. They should also ensure they don't spill. As well, citizens should not leave salt blocks outside for the deer to chew on.
“If you have deer in your yard, try to make them feel unwelcome,” said Feder.
“You can make noise to scare them off. They are like bears in the sense that if they don't feel accepted they will leave.”
Feder said the most important thing is to make sure yards are kept clean of any spilled grains or anything the deer would be interested in consuming.
She said by doing this it will go a long way in keeping deer away but also mice, squirrels, bears, cougars and other wildlife.
