Coexisting with wildlife has become a challenge for some as urban development has grown to envelop the habitat of a myriad of wildlife. In the springtime many animals come out of their hiding places and begin to forage for food that may have been unavailable throughout the long, cold winter months. Animals are mating and caring for their young, and consequently we begin to see many more animals playing and gathering food during the summer months. This is also the time of the year when people take advantage of the warm weather to go camping, work on a garden, and enjoy a variety of outdoor sports. As a result, we encounter more animals in summer that at any other time of year.

The animals that you are likely to find include deer, bears, squirrels, raccoons, beavers, birds, and woodchucks – all of which are able to quickly adapt to human presence. Humans, however, have not completely adapted to living side by side with their animal neighbors. Since we are not exposed to wildlife on a regular basis we may be unsure how to respond in a safe, humane way to any conflicts. It is important to realize that animals living in the open are not domesticated and may harm you if you try to get too close or encroach on their territory. It is critical to educate yourself on how to deal with wildlife in a kind and respectful way in order to avoid damage to your home or property and injuries to yourself or to animals. Read on to learn about how you can peacefully coexist with your wild neighbors!