Although offering food to others is usually considered admirable, feeding wildlife is more harmful than helpful because human food is not always healthy for wild animals.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) reminds and urges the public to refrain from feeding wildlife.
Under Colorado law, feeding big game animals is illegal because it risks wildlife health and safety. Many cities have also implemented additional feeding restrictions for squirrels and rabbits. Those in violation are subject to fines, and even worse, they could cause the animal to become sick and die.
Note: Under Colorado law, intentionally feeding big game animals is illegal. The prohibition applies to bears, bighorn sheep, deer, elk, pronghorn, moose, mountain goats and mountain lions. Violators face a $100 fine.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife hopes you won’t face such a fine and that we’ve explained why it’s best to simply let Mother Nature take care of wild animals. If you don’t, you quite literally could end up loving our wildlife to death.
How can humans help wildlife?
- Do not approach, touch, or feed wild animals.
- Enjoy wildlife from a safe distance.
- Keep your dog on a leash on trails.
- If you find a wild animal that appears sick or injured, leave it alone. Call your local Colorado Parks and Wildlife office and talk to a trained wildlife officer for guidance.
For more information on how to coexist with wildlife, read the online resources below:
- Living with Wildlife
- Spring Wildlife Advice
- Avoid Conflicts with Wildlife
- Conservation and Management
Written by Bridget O’Rourke. Bridget is a Statewide Public Information Officer and Marketing and Communication Specialist for Colorado Parks and Wildlife.