Local Wildlife

• Never approach the sheep. Take photos from a safe distance.
• Do not feed Bighorn Sheep or any other wildlife.
• Be cautious when walking your dog near sheep. They see dogs as predators and may attack. Give them a wide berth.
• Be careful in spring, when ewes are protective of their young.
• Be careful in fall when the rut (mating season) begins. Male sheep can act erratically and aggressively.
• Slow down and watch for sheep on roads, especially at dusk and dawn.

The Columbia Valley is home to mule deer and white-tailed deer Some have made urban areas home thanks to abundant food sources, available cover, and limited predators. Growing deer populations in residential areas have led to increases in human-wildlife conflicts. Normally timid animals, deer can become dangerous if habituated to humans. Once established in a neighbourhood, they are hard to remove, so it is important to ensure deer do not become comfortable in your yard.

• It is illegal to feed deer.
• Never approach a deer, especially if it has young with it, particularly in spring and summer.
• Be cautious when walking your dog near deer, as they see dogs as predators and may attack. Keep your dog leashed.
• If a deer advances and attacks, try to stay upright, cover your head with your arms, and back away slowly.
• In November and December, the rut begins and male deer can act erratically and aggressively. Give them space.

For more information on reducing conflict with deer, visit wildsafebc.com/deer/

Bears have insatiable appetites and are natural scavengers. Once they find an easy food source, they will return to it if it remains available. Once a bear becomes food-conditioned, it usually cannot be rehabilitated and relocation does not work. Reducing attractants around your property is the most effective way to discourage bears.

• Store garbage in a shed, garage, or bear-resistant container. Put it out on collection morning, not the night before.
• Remove bird feeders from spring through fall.
• Pick fruit daily as it ripens; consider replacing fruit trees with non-fruit-bearing alternatives.
• Keep pet food indoors.
• Clean BBQs thoroughly after each use.
• Use a proper compost bin.

If a bear has been in your yard or you are concerned about bear activity near your home, report it through the RAPP line: 1-877-952-7277.

For more information on avoiding attracting bears, visit wildsafebc.com/black-bear/

Cougars favour rocky and mountainous terrain but also live in forested and open areas, travelling long distances in search of food. Cougars feed mainly on deer but will eat most animals, including house pets, coyotes, and black bear cubs. Although encounters between cougars and humans are rare, they do happen. Take appropriate precautions when hiking or walking in the woods, or even around the Village.

• Keep your pet on a leash.
• Keep smaller children close by. Never let them wander on their own.
• When hiking, go as a group.
• Reduce the chance of surprising a cougar by making noise to alert it of your presence.
• Stay alert and watch for signs: tracks, droppings, scratched trees, and food caches.
• Never approach cougar kittens. The mother is likely nearby.

If you encounter a cougar:

• Stay calm and keep it in view. Pick up small children or pets. Back away slowly, ensuring the animal has a clear avenue of escape. Never turn your back or run away.
• Make yourself look as large as possible. Raise your hands above your head.
• Maintain eye contact, show your teeth, make loud noises, and arm yourself with sticks or rocks.
• If the cougar attacks, fight back. Keep the animal in front of you at all times. Use whatever you can as a weapon. Keep your focus on the cougar's face and eyes.

For more information, visit wildsafebc.com/cougar