Human Activity Can Harm Wintering Wildlife

Winter can be a tough time for wildlife. Fortunately, Idaho's native big game animals are adapted to surviving the extreme winter conditions that occasionally occur in the Intermountain West. Some individual animals die even during the mildest winters. Extended harsh conditions mean greater losses. Weather is one of those things that can't be controlled, but there are other factors humans can control that will have a direct effect on animal welfare and survival, both in the short and long run. From a big picture perspective, how humans use the land will have the greatest long-term effect on wildlife. Habitat fragmentation by development of all sorts makes it more difficult for animals to get to the places they need to survive. From loss of areas suited for protection of new born animals to blockage of important migration routes, everything humans do has some sort of effect. Fortunately, more people are becoming aware of these problems, and they are doing more to resolve large scale problems. Idaho Fish and Game is working to help educate the public about some activities that are having a direct immediate negative effect on wintering big game herds. Reports are streaming in daily to the regional office in Idaho Falls about humans using snow machines to get too close to wintering animals, and about loose dogs chasing big game. "People need to realize that these animals have only so much fat stored up to get through the winter," said Curtis Hendricks, a regional habitat biologist. "Letting dogs run free to chase the deer and elk can have a serious impact on survival." Most people who try to get close to wildlife in the winter to view them have no idea of the harm they are inflicting. "They assume because the animal doesn't run away immediately that their presence is no big deal," said Gregg Losinski, regional conservation educator. In reality, the stress of having humans or dogs close burns valuable calories. Getting close enough to actually cause the animals to run away means an incredible amount of valuable energy has been wasted. People who have homes along the wildland interface are urged not to let dogs run wild. Idaho law covers such wildlife harassment issues, and as a control measure, dogs harassing wild game can legally be shot. Humans who chase wildlife with snow machines are also liable under state law for harassment of wildlife. Anyone who sees either dogs or humans harassing wildlife should call local law enforcement or contact the closest Idaho Fish and Game office.