Winter Activities Can Affect Wildlife

By Matt Sheppard, Idaho Department of Fish and Game There are two kinds of people, those who dread winter and those who relish it. For the winter outdoor enthusiasts, take a moment to think about how activities might affect wildlife. And for the not-so-excited group, just remember that winter is a lot worse for deer or elk. Winter is a critical time for deer and elk survival. Mother Nature's winter bite can sink its teeth into an animal, especially one without adequate body fat to counter periods of extreme cold during winter months. Snow depths and conditions often require deer and elk to expend more energy to obtain their food. The use of more energy comes at a deadly expense when an animal does not have the necessary fat reserves to draw upon for its survival. Lower elevation winter range habitats also tend to be areas where deer and elk are more vulnerable to human disturbance. For some, the opportunity to see wildlife is the reason they choose to strap on snowshoes or go for a snowmobile ride. But getting too close or chasing after deer or elk for a better look may result in that animal expending valuable energy needed for survival. Deer and elk already feeling the stresses of winter don't need the odds further stacked against them, so give them their space. Dogs may be favorite outdoor companions, but owners need to keep their four-legged friends under control. It is not uncommon for a dog or dogs, stray or otherwise, to take down and injure or kill a deer. Even if the dog just chases a deer, the deer is less likely to survive the winter. Not knowing where the dog is or what it is doing is not an excuse. If a dog chases deer or other big game animals, please keep it confined. If the owner fails to keep his or her dog under control, they may get a misdemeanor citation or the dog may even be destroyed by a conservation officer. Matt Sheppard is a senior conservation officer in the Salmon Region.