Living with Wildlife: Safety Tips for Douglas County Residents
Bears, mountain lions, and coyotes – oh my! While deer and even bobcats are a common sight in Douglas County, wildlife sightings are on the rise across Colorado, including in Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, and Parker. This summer, Colorado Parks and Wildlife has reported a record number of bear reports and encounters, not to mention other wildlife sightings. Coming into contact with wildlife can sometimes result in injuries, and in rare cases, even death, for both animals and humans.
Drought and wildfires this year have impacted wildlife habitat and food sources, potentially causing more animals to venture into suburban neighborhoods in search of food and water.
As we head into fall, many animals are focused on building up fat reserves to help them survive the winter. That can mean an increased potential for wildlife sightings – and, in some cases, more defensive or aggressive behavior.
Here are tips from Colorado Parks and Wildlife to help you safely coexist with bears, coyotes and other wildlife:
Never feed or approach bears (or other wildlife). Intentionally feeding wildlife, or allowing wildlife to access food on your property, is illegal. Feeding wildlife can cause animals to associate homes with food and lose their natural fear of humans.
Safely store trash, animal feed and other attractants. Secure trash receptacles, food scraps, and bird feeders to eliminate the strong odors that can attract wildlife to residential properties.
Never leave pet food outdoors. Feed pets indoors, or thoroughly clean up food and bowls immediately after feeding them outside.
Clean and store outdoor grills. Burn off grease and food particles after every use, and store grills inside a secure garage or shed when possible.
Secure windows and doors. Keep windows and doors closed and locked, particularly when you’re away from home.
Wildlife can be an incredible part of living in Colorado, but giving animals plenty of space and removing potential food sources can go a long way toward keeping both wildlife and our neighborhoods safe.
For wildlife concerns, including sick or injured wildlife, contact Colorado Parks and Wildlife at 303-291-7227 or visit their website for more tips and information.
Where to Report a Wildlife Sighting in Douglas County
In an emergency, call 9-1-1.
Castle Rock
Call Castle Rock Animal Control at 720-733-6063 or call the Police Department non-emergency number at 303-663-6100. You can also contact the Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s Northeast Region Service Center at 303-291-7227.
Highlands Ranch
If wildlife like bears and mountain lions are endangering public safety in a residential area or on your property, call 303-660-7500.
Lone Tree
Call Lone Tree Police Department at 303-799-0533 to report a bear sighting. An officer will respond to note its location, and residents of the area will be notified via the City’s communication channels to ensure residents are aware of the bear’s presence.
Parker
Parker residents are encouraged to report wildlife incidents tot he Animal Services Officer at the Police Department at 303-841-9800.
