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Local Wildlife
The Town of Diamond Valley is situated along the picturesque Sheep River valley, within close proximity to the Rocky Mountains and Kananaskis Country, a haven for the wild creatures of our bioregion. Our urban community strives to coexist harmoniously with the wildlife community. Encountering wildlife is a natural and enriching part of everyday life in the foothills region.
Sharing Spaces with Original Inhabitants: Wildlife Corridors
The surrounding area boasts several wildlife corridors, serving as crucial habitats for many four-legged inhabitants. Throughout the year, residents may witness the unique beauty of wildlife such as deer, moose, elk, bears, bobcats and cougars, as well as smaller wild animals such as coyotes, foxes, skunks and raccoons, moving in and around our town. It's essential to recognize the significance of these natural corridors as vital habitats for various wildlife species.
As responsible stewards of this environment, we must coexist and share these spaces with the original inhabitants. While wildlife typically moves through town without incident, caution is crucial, especially when dealing with injured or protective animals, particularly those traveling with their offspring. Remember, safety is paramount. Wild animals are unpredictable; maintaining a safe distance ensures your well-being and the welfare of the animals. Never provoke or feed wildlife.
Preventing Habituation to Human Food Sources: Keep Wildlife Wild
To sustain the delicate balance between urban living and untamed nature, it is imperative that we prevent habituation to human food sources among our wild inhabitants. In accordance with the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw 2025-106, it is illegal to bait, feed, lure or take any actions which may attract wildlife, with the exception of bird feeders, which are allowed on the condition that they are set out at a height that is only accessible to birds. Contraventions of this bylaw may result in a fine of up to $400. We do encourage residents to report concerns by calling the bylaw complaint line at 403-933-0334.
Living in Harmony with Wild Animals
Below, you will find helpful information on the steps we can take to protect wild animals and ourselves from unwanted interactions. By understanding the importance of coexistence and adopting responsible practices, we contribute to the ongoing legacy of keeping our wildlife truly wild.
Bear Safety
Bears are occasional visitors to Diamond Valley, and while direct interactions with humans are infrequent, it's crucial to cultivate bear awareness and adopt bear-smart habits as a routine, ensuring we minimize the risk of attracting them or habituating them to human settlements in their quest for food.
Secure Garbage: Store garbage in animal-resistant containers and place garbage bins inside a building such as a garage or shed until garbage day. Never burn garbage.
Food Sources: Household items such as food, cooking utensils, barbeques etc. should always be kept in a secure place that bears can't get access to. Fish parts, meat bones or other meat by-products for the compost should be kept in the freezer until they can be disposed of properly on compost collection day.
Keep the BBQ clean: Barbeques and grills should be cleaned immediately after use.
Remove Attractants such as Pet Food: Feed pets indoors and avoid leaving pet food outside.
Feed the Birds Seasonally: Only feed the birds using bird feeders between November and March each year. Bears are attracted by the smell of birdseed.
Manage Fruit Trees and Compost: Regularly pick up fallen fruit to avoid attracting bears.
Secure Outdoor Structures: Ensure outdoor structures are bear-resistant, particularly those containing pet food or other odorous items. Fully enclose backyard beehives and chicken coops. Electric fencing can be an effective deterrent when used appropriately.
Hiking and Recreation Safety: Stay on designated trails and pathways. Travel in groups when possible and carry bear spray as a precaution.
Avoid Surprise Encounters: Make noise while hiking to alert bears to your presence and reduce the chance of surprising them. This is crucial during activities like trail running or biking.
Steer Clear: Keep your distance when you spot wildlife. Giving them room reduces the chance of conflict. Do not approach wildlife, especially if they have young with them. Wildlife can be dangerous when protecting themselves or their young.
Motion Sensor Lights: Install motion sensor lights around your property to deter bears and other nocturnal wildlife. Well-lit spaces can discourage bears from approaching.
Reporting Sightings: If you spot a bear, report it to local wildlife authorities. Maintain a safe distance and never approach or attempt to feed them.
- Practice Pet Etiquette: Always keep your pets leashed and under control while in on-leash areas. Pick up after your pet. Cleaning up waste helps keep our pets and wildlife healthy. It also reduces wildlife being attracted to the area by the food source.
Respect Bear Behavior: Understand bear behaviors, especially during different seasons. Be particularly cautious around females with cubs, as they may be more defensive.
Campsite Considerations: When camping, store food securely and away from sleeping areas. Follow proper food storage guidelines to prevent bears from associating campsites with potential food sources.
Remember, respecting wildlife and adopting responsible practices contribute to a safer environment for both humans and bears. By implementing these bear safety tips, we enhance our ability to coexist harmoniously with these magnificent creatures in our natural surroundings.
Reducing Human-Deer Conflict: Ensuring Safe Coexistence
Although deer seem docile, encounters can pose risks to both humans and pets. Deer, especially when cornered or defending their young, may exhibit defensive behaviors. To minimize potential conflicts and promote a safe coexistence, consider the following tips:
Avoid Feeding Wildlife: Refrain from feeding deer or any wildlife. Dependency on non-wild foods can lead to harmful habits and increase the likelihood of conflicts with people.
Protect Bird Feeders and Minimize Spillage: Place bird feeders out of reach of deer, ensuring they cannot access spilled seeds. Use a catch tray underneath to avoid attracting deer to the ground-level food source.
Drive Cautiously: Reduce speed in areas frequented by deer, especially during dawn and dusk when they are more active. This provides more reaction time and helps prevent collisions.
Leave Young Deer Alone: Young deer may seem orphaned, but it's essential to leave them undisturbed. Often, they are intentionally hidden by their parents while they forage for food. Intervention is generally not necessary.
- Assess Injured Deer: If you encounter a deer that appears injured but is still mobile, observe from a safe distance. In many cases, their likelihood of survival is high, and they may recover naturally.
- Report Injured and Immobile Deer: If you come across an injured deer that is not mobile (e.g., laying down), contact Alberta Fish and Wildlife at 403-297-6423 or 1-800-642-3800 (after hours) for appropriate assistance.
Maintaining a respectful distance and understanding the natural behaviors of deer contributes to a safer environment for both residents and wildlife. By following these guidelines, we can reduce the likelihood of conflicts and foster a harmonious coexistence with these magnificent creatures in our community.
Tips for Keeping Deer out of the Garden
Discovering that deer have feasted upon the carefully nurtured plants, flower beds, and shrubs in your garden can be disheartening, especially after investing time and resources. In our community, where the deer population is abundant, creating a robust strategy to make your yard and garden less accessible or enticing to deer is crucial for success. As the pressure on these animals to find food sources increases, consider implementing a multifaceted approach to safeguard your green oasis. Explore the following tips to fortify your garden against the persistent presence of deer:
- Deer-Resistant Landscaping: Strategically plan your landscaping to include deer-resistant plants as borders or barriers around more susceptible vegetation.
- Utilize Gravel as a Natural Deterrent: Deer dislike walking on gravel, making it an effective barrier around garden beds. Create a protective perimeter to discourage their presence.
- High Fencing and Cages for Valuable Plants: Install tall fencing or protective cages around prized plants to safeguard them from curious deer. Ensure the fencing is sturdy and tall enough to prevent easy access.
- Deer Repellent Strategies: Explore deer repellents like sprays or natural deterrents containing ingredients like garlic, hot peppers, soaps, human hair, or predator scents. Apply these periodically, especially after rain.
- Choose Deer-Resistant Plants for Zone 3 Gardens: Selecting plants that deer find unpalatable is a key strategy.
Zone 3 deer-resistant plants include:
Southern Alberta / Foothills native species:
- Prickly Pear Cactus (Opuntia fragilis)
- Buffaloberry (Shepherdia argentea)
- Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa var. menthifolia)
- Western Coneflower (Rudbeckia occidentalis)
- Prairie Smoke (Geum triflorum)
- Western Red Lily (Lilium philadelphicum var. andinum)
- Western Yarrow (Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis)
- Common Camas (Camassia quamash)
- Blue Flax (Linum lewisii)
- Canada Anemone (Anemone canadensis)
Other deer-resistant species often grown in ornamental gardens:
- Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
- Siberian Iris (Iris sibirica)
- Bee Balm (Monarda spp.)
- Lambs Ear (Stachys byzantina)
- Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)
- Daffodils (Narcissus spp.)
- Liatris (Liatris spicata)
- Sedum (Sedum spp.)
- Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis)
- Hellebore (Helleborus spp.)
- Columbine (Aquilegia spp.)
- Lavender (Lavandula spp.)
- Yucca (Yucca spp.)
- Barrenwort (Epimedium spp.)
- Astilbe (Astilbe spp.)
- Oriental Poppy (Papaver orientale)
- Bergenia (Bergenia spp.)
- Japanese Anemone (Anemone hupehensis)
Vegetables which are more deer-resistant:
- Onions (Allium spp.)
- Garlic (Allium sativum)
- Leeks (Allium ampeloprasum)
- Peppers (Capsicum spp.)
- Eggplant (Solanum melongena)
- Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum)
- Radishes (Raphanus sativus)
- Potatoes (Solanum tuberosum)
- Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis)
- Winter Squash (Cucurbita maxima)
- Summer Squash (Cucurbita pepo)
- Zucchini (Cucurbita pepo var. cylindrica)
- Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
Cougar and Bobcat Safety: Coexisting Cautiously
Encounters with cougars and bobcats in Diamond Valley are rare, but fostering awareness and adopting safety measures is paramount to ensure a harmonious coexistence. Follow these guidelines to enhance safety in areas occasionally visited by these magnificent feline creatures:
When Walking or Hiking:
Stay on Designated Trails: Stick to designated trails and paths, reducing the likelihood of surprise encounters. Carry a walking stick, which can be used as a potential weapon against a cougar.
Travel in Groups: When hiking or walking, travel in groups to deter cougars and bobcats.
Make Noise: Make occasional noise, especially in areas with limited visibility, to alert these predators to your presence.
Carry Bear Spray or an Air Horn: Ensure your bear spray has not yet expired and air horn or other noise deterrents are working. Make sure you know how to use them. Keep them on your belt or in a chest holster so you can access them quickly.
Leash and Control Pets: Keep pets leashed and under control in on-leash areas to minimize potential conflicts.
Avoid Dusk and Dawn Activities: Restrict outdoor activities during dawn and dusk, as these are peak times for cougar and bobcat activity.
Educate Children: Teach children not to approach any unfamiliar animals and to stay close during outdoor activities. Prepare children for staying safe in cougar territory. Teach them to:
- Stay between the adults of the group and not run ahead or fall behind.
- Never run away from cougars or show fear by screaming.
- Always fight back and never give up if a cougar makes contact.
Around Home:
Secure Outdoor Structures: Fully enclose backyard structures for small animals, preventing access by cougars and bobcats.
Install Motion Sensor Lights: Install motion sensor lights around your property to deter nocturnal wildlife.
Remain Vigilant: Be vigilant in cougar and bobcat country, especially in areas with dense vegetation or rocky terrain where they may seek cover.
Report Sightings: Report any cougar or bobcat sightings to local wildlife authorities promptly.
Cougar Encounters*
- Cougars are elusive and prefer to avoid contact with humans, so attacks on humans are very rare.
- The few cougar incidents with humans that have occurred typically involved children playing outside alone or adults who are jogging, skiing or hiking alone.
- Cougars may confuse children for prey species because, like many small prey species, children are small, make quick, erratic movements and have high-pitched voices.
- Most cougar incidents in Alberta involve pets. Cougars see domestic cats and dogs as easy prey. When bringing your dog along on a hike, camping or fishing trip, keep in mind that it may attract a cougar.
- If hungry and malnourished, cougars will feed on such things as carrion or dog/cat food left in backyards, increasing the risk of human-cougar incidents.
If you see a cougar at a distance
Cougars grooming or periodically looking away from you may simply be resting. In this case, avoid provoking the cougar:
- Bring everyone in close and back away.
- Do not run and do not turn your back.
- Prepare to use your bear spray.
If the cougar is closer
Cougars close and showing such behaviours as hissing, snarling, staring intensely and tracking your movements present a threat. You must show the cougar you are not a prey animal and you are able to fight back:
- Do not run. Do not turn your back.
- Make sure children and dogs stay calm. Keep them very close.
- Make yourself look big. Wave your arms, open your jacket and do not crouch down or bend over.
- Use your noise deterrent and bear spray.
If the cougar makes contact
- Continue using your bear spray.
- Fight back with everything you can. Rocks, sticks or your fists should be aimed at the cougar's eyes and face.
- If you're knocked down, get back up. Do not stop fighting.
- Never play dead with a cougar.
*Source: Cougars and outdoor recreation, Government of Alberta
By following these safety tips, we contribute to a safer environment for both residents and the magnificent wildlife that occasionally grace our community.
Urban Wildlife Awareness: Coyotes, Foxes, Skunks, Raccoons, and Squirrels
Living in proximity to nature brings the joy of observing wildlife, but it can also present challenges when certain smaller wild animals, such as coyotes, foxes, skunks, raccoons, and squirrels, become unwelcome visitors in our residential spaces. Striking a balance between coexistence and managing potential nuisances requires a thoughtful approach. In this section, we provide practical insights and strategies for residents to peacefully deter and manage the presence of these animals.
Coyotes and Foxes
Encounters with coyotes and foxes in urban settings are not uncommon. It's essential to understand their behaviors and implement measures to ensure a safe coexistence. Follow these guidelines to foster awareness and minimize potential conflicts and promote a peaceful relationship with these adaptable and resourceful creatures:
Secure Trash Containers: Use animal-resistant containers for garbage to discourage scavenging by coyotes and foxes.
Avoid Feeding: Refrain from feeding coyotes and foxes, as this can lead to habituation and increase the risk of conflicts. Remove potential food sources, such as fallen fruit and pet food, to discourage visits.
Supervise Pets: Keep pets, especially small dogs and cats, supervised and on a leash during walks to prevent interactions.
Secure Outdoor Structures: Fully enclose outdoor structures, such as sheds and chicken coops, to prevent access.
Install Motion Sensor Lights: Install motion sensor lights to deter nocturnal wildlife, creating an environment less appealing to coyotes and foxes.
Close Off Denning Sites: Seal potential denning sites under decks, sheds, or other structures to discourage nesting.
Avoid Approach: Do not approach or attempt to feed these wild animals; maintain a safe distance to avoid conflicts.
Report Unusual Behavior: Report any unusual or aggressive behavior from coyotes or foxes to local wildlife authorities promptly.
Skunks
In the foothills and residential landscapes, skunks can become frequent nocturnal visitors, seeking food, insects, and shelter. While these creatures play a role in the local ecosystem, finding a balance that minimizes potential conflicts with human inhabitants is crucial.
Remove Food Sources: Skunks are attracted to food, insects, and garbage. Ensure that trash bins have secure lids and are not easily accessible. Avoid leaving pet food outdoors, and clean up fallen fruits or birdseed regularly.
Seal Entry Points: Conduct a thorough inspection of your property, focusing on potential entry points under decks, sheds, and outbuildings. Skunks may seek shelter under decks or in crawl spaces. Prevent access to possible denning sites by sealing any openings with sturdy materials like wire mesh or fencing to block access to these areas to prevent skunks from establishing nests. Regularly inspect and maintain the integrity of these barriers.
Use Motion-Activated Lights or Sprinklers: Skunks are nocturnal animals, and sudden bright lights or unexpected sprays of water can startle them away. Install motion-activated lights or sprinklers in areas where skunks are likely to roam.
Natural Repellents: Consider using natural repellents like citrus peels, ammonia-soaked rags, or commercial skunk repellent sprays around potential entry points. Skunks have a keen sense of smell and may be deterred by strong odors.
Promptly Remove Fallen Foliage: Skunks often search for insects in fallen leaves and debris. Regularly rake and dispose of leaves to reduce potential food sources and make your property less appealing to skunks.
Do Not Approach: Skunks are known for their defensive spray, which can be difficult to remove and has a strong odor. If you encounter a skunk, avoid approaching it, and give it space to retreat without feeling threatened.
Professional Removal: If skunks become a persistent problem, it is advisable to contact a professional pest control or wildlife removal service. These experts can safely and humanely trap and relocate skunks, minimizing the risk of defensive spraying.
Raccoons
Raccoons are resourceful and adaptable animals that can become a nuisance in residential areas. To minimize their presence and prevent potential issues, consider the following tips:
Secure Garbage Bins: Raccoons are attracted to easily accessible food sources. Use secure, animal-proof lids on garbage bins to prevent them from rummaging through trash.
Raccoon-proof Animal Enclosures: Ensure that outdoor structures for rabbits, poultry or other small animals are fully enclosed, including the sides, top and bottom. Wire mesh fence openings should be small enough to prevent animals from wiggling through. Be aware that raccoons have been known to reach through mesh fencing to try to pull animals out through the mesh
Remove Outdoor Food Sources: Ensure that pet food and bird feeders are not left outside overnight, as raccoons are opportunistic feeders and may be drawn to these food sources.
Seal Entry Points: Conduct a thorough inspection of your property for potential entry points. Seal any openings in attics, crawl spaces, or under decks to discourage raccoons from nesting on your property.
Trim Trees and Overhanging Branches: Raccoons are excellent climbers. Trim branches that may provide access to your roof or attic, reducing the likelihood of them gaining entry.
Motion-Activated Lights or Sprinklers: Install motion-activated lights or sprinklers in areas where raccoons are likely to frequent. The sudden activation can deter them from lingering on your property.
Professional Assistance: If raccoons become a persistent problem, consider contacting a wildlife removal professional or local animal control for humane and effective removal methods.
Squirrels
Squirrels are active and agile creatures that can sometimes become a nuisance in residential areas. Here are some management strategies:
Secure Bird Feeders: If you have bird feeders, use squirrel-proof designs or place them in locations that are challenging for squirrels to access. This helps minimize their attraction to your property.
Trim Tree Branches: Squirrels often use overhanging branches to access roofs and attics. Trim branches near your home to limit their pathways and prevent them from gaining entry.
Seal Entry Points: Conduct a thorough inspection of your property for potential entry points. Seal any gaps or openings in attics, eaves, and vents to prevent squirrels from nesting indoors.
Remove Food Sources: Keep outdoor areas clean and free of food scraps. Securely store any pet food and consider using squirrel-proof bird feeders to discourage their presence.
Repellents: Natural or commercial repellents may help deter squirrels from specific areas. Consult with local garden centers or pest control professionals for effective options.
Professional Assistance: If squirrel activity persists, seek the assistance of wildlife removal professionals or local animal control services for humane and appropriate removal methods.
Report a Concern
Illegally Feeding Wildlife
If you witness anyone deliberately feeding or baiting wildlife, we ask that you register the concern through our Bylaw Complaint Line by calling 403-933-0334.
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Dangerous Animal Encounters
If you have seen or had contact with any potentially dangerous wildlife please report directly to Alberta Fish and Wildlife.
High River Area Office
129 4 Avenue SW
High River, Alberta T1V 1M7
Dial 310-0000 prior to the area code and telephone number.
(403) 932-2388
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Report a Poacher
Report suspicious or illegal hunting and fishing activity, dangerous wildlife encounters and serious public land abuse online or by phone:
Online: Report a poacher
Toll free: 1-800-642-3800
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Illegal Activities or Public Safety on Public Land
To report illegal activity and public safety issues on public land or in provincial parks, call 310-LAND.
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Connect with Alberta Environment and Parks Outreach Services:
Hours: 8:15 am to 4:30 pm (open Monday to Friday, closed statutory holidays)
Phone: 310-ESRD (3773)
Toll free: 1-877-944-0313
Email: aep.outreach-services@gov.ab.ca
Address:
Outreach Services
Alberta Environment and Parks
Main Floor, Forestry Building
9920 108 Street
Edmonton Alberta T5K 2M4
Note: Outreach Services can provide callers with general information related to fish and wildlife issues but is not able to answer enforcement-related questions or process applications related to Fish and Wildlife permits.