While it may seem like wildlife are moving through populated areas more often, the Division of Wildlife Resources says the increase in doorbell and security cameras in neighborhoods is largely to blame. The most important thing is to just keep your distance. “Getting too close to a wild animal can cause the animal to feel threatened,” shares DWR Big Game Coordinator Dax Mangus. “If it feels threatened, it will sometimes act aggressively to protect itself, which can be unsafe for you or your pets. However, these encounters can also be harmful for the animal. Because it’s harder for some wildlife to find food in the winter, they need to conserve their energy in order to survive. While a one-off encounter may not be fatal, repeatedly disturbing or chasing species — such as moose and deer — can cause them to use up some of the essential fat reserves and energy they need to survive the winter.” Be sure to never feed wild animals. Report cougar sightings if it has killed something in the neighborhood, exhibits aggressive behavior, or has appeared on your security camera multiple times. Report black bear sightings if they are being aggressive or if they are getting into trash or fruit trees. Visit wildlife.utah.gov for more.
