Stay safe in the woods

It feels great to brush off a long winter and enjoy the changing season by getting outdoors. 

But it is also time for a refresher on what we know about human/wildlife interactions. 

"It is great to see them from a distance where you can take pictures but you never want to get too close to them." 

B.C. Conservation Officer Mike Richardson reminds everyone that this time of year there is an increased chance of coming across wildlife.

"When you are out hiking in the bush, I tell people, always make noise. Never walk silently."

It is the season when animals start having their young. 

"People think deer are beautiful but they can be very dangerous, especially when a mom is protecting her young fawn... they will be very protective."

Richardson says they get a lot of complaints about deer going after dogs.

"Deer don't know the difference between a dog or a coyote or a wolf. That is their predator and they are being chased constantly. Does can be very aggressive when they see those types of animals."

Richardson urges people to always keep their distance from wild animals, whether that is deer or bears. 

"These creatures, like bears, are starting to wake up," he says. "People have to realize that when they are coming out of their dens they are very groggy and they are also very hungry."

Richardson says while it is still a bit early for bears to end their hibernation, it is not too early for people to start eliminating attractants from their properties, whether that be garbage, birdseed or pet food.

"If there are no attractants around your property these animals won't hang around. Most of them are looking for food."

Richardson also warns people to be aware of the normal and abnormal behaviour or animals.

For example, a cougar stalking a deer is normal behaviour. That is a cougar's food source, but a cougar goes after a family pet or livestock or a bear goes after garbage that is abnormal behaviour.

Those instances should be reported to the B.C. Conservation Officer Service.

"Wildlife can pop up any spot," says Richardson." I'm not saying be afraid of them, but be on the lookout and be wary that they are around."

To report wildlife that threatens public safety call the B.C. Conservation Service at 1-877-952-7277.