Here in Alberta, we are fortunate to have a variety of wild animals roaming our neighborhoods on a daily basis. Many parts of the world have decimated wild populations so that they no longer enjoy this privilege. Even in urban Calgary, it is not unusual to see a fox hunting in the local park, a deer bedded down in a garden, or a hawk raising its young in your own backyard.
There are many misconceptions about the behaviors and eating habits of our native species. It is important to know the these animals are rarely a threat to us or our pets. In most cases, when left alone, a wild animal will simply go about the business of trying to survive. They may be attracted to your neighbourhood by water, trees, edible plants, bird feeders, or man-made shelters. Hightly adaptable species such as robins, white tail deer, and merlins, may even decide to have their babies within the shelter of your home!
The Bow River is often favoured by wildlife as a migration or a dispersal corridor; sheltering trees and thick bush offer food and cover for animals trying to get from Point A to Point B. City parks, such as Nose Hill, Fish Creek and Weaselhead, represent chunks of habitat where one can find nesting ducks, soaring birds of prey, grazing deer, munching procupines, and basking snakes. If you take a quiet moment during an evening stroll, you can often witness these common, yet marvelous creatures, in action.
Cats in backyards and dogs out for a walk often encounter such animals. If an altercation should take place, it is usually the domestic pet that is the aggressor. They many be protecting their owner, they may be enticed by the excitement of a chase, or they may simply be curious.
What Pet Owners Can Do...
-Don't panic if you encounter a wild animal you are not very familiar with. Stand still, allowing the animal a moment to leave. Given the chance, they will almost always flee or hide, rather than move towards you.
-Don't yell. Your pet may mistake this for fear or anxietty and behave in a manner that can make the situation worse.
-In areas known to commonly harbor wild animals, keep your dog on a leash. There are numerous off-leash areeas with plenty of room and less likelihood of encountering wildlife.
-Be sure your dog will respond quickly to your commands. By maintaining control of the situation, you can prevent conflicts.
-Keep your cat indoors. They will live much longer and healthier lives. There are numerous resources available with helpful suggestions for keeping cats happy indoors. Ask your veterinarian about the benefits of keeping your cat inside. You can also call the center for additional resources. We would be happy to share those with you.
-If your pet harms a wild animal, place the animal in a towel-lined cardboard box and keep it in a dark, quiet place until you can call the centre for assistance.
published by Alberta Institute for Wildlife Conservation
Special Points of Interest...
wild animals usually prefer 'flight' versus 'fight'it is illegal to allow your pet to harass or harm wildlifethe leading cause of injury to birds admitted to AIWC is cat attack. the leading cause of injury to young mammals admitted to AIWC is dog attack.
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