As deer become more visible in neighborhoods and rural areas across Southwest Washington, wildlife officials are reminding residents to keep their distance, secure pets and avoid feeding wild animals, the Washington state Department of Fish and Wildlife stated in a news release.
Like other wildlife, deer may defend themselves or their young if they feel threatened. That can create risks for people and pets, especially when dogs chase, lunge at or approach deer.
Residents are encouraged to keep dogs leashed, supervise pets outdoors and admire deer from a safe distance. Giving wildlife room to leave an area can help prevent conflicts.
Feeding wildlife can also create problems. When deer lose their natural fear of people, they may become more aggressive or more vulnerable to harm. Feeding can also spread disease, attract predators and make animals sick.
In Washington, feeding deer, elk and moose is illegal as part of efforts to limit the spread of chronic wasting disease and other illnesses.
Deer are valued by many residents as watchable wildlife and game animals. But in areas where hunting is limited and predators are few, deer populations can grow to levels that increase conflicts with people.
Common problems include damage to gardens, landscaping, crops, restoration projects and reforestation areas. Deer-vehicle collisions are also a concern.
Conflicts are often more common where new development has moved into traditional deer habitat. Residents living near undeveloped land or on the edges of neighborhoods may see more damage than those in more urbanized areas. Still, deer often adapt to human activity and can appear in unexpected places.
Wildlife officials note that scare tactics may work temporarily, but deer often become used to them. Visual deterrents such as scarecrows or bright lights, noise-making devices, and scents such as predator urine may help in some cases, but no single method works for all deer.
Motion-activated sprinklers can be more effective because they combine movement, noise and a burst of water. Radios or lights connected to motion sensors may also help, though they are generally considered less effective.
