Augustans Have Company as Wildlife Makes Its Fall Debut
As summer winds down and fall creeps in, residents in Augusta might notice a familiar shift in their backyard and neighborhood scenes. Wildlife is on the move, and it seems like they are as excited about the changing seasons as we are! According to I.B. Parnell, a wildlife biologist with Georgia’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR), there’s been a notable uptick in calls regarding various wildlife, especially in Richmond, Columbia, and Burke counties.
Deer and Their Devious Diets
One of the main culprits causing a stir is the deer. Parnell reported receiving several calls about these graceful creatures, particularly related to injury or, more commonly, their eating habits. “The main one right now is for injured deer or deer eating stuff that people don’t want them to eat,” he explained. While deer are generally harmless, it’s important for Augustans to be aware that they can carry diseases.
If you encounter a deer in distress or one munching on your garden, it’s best to reach out to a biologist for advice. It’s good practice to stay informed; just because these animals are cute doesn’t mean they’re free of potential issues!
Alligators on the Move
As if deer weren’t enough, Parnell mentioned receiving about half a dozen calls about alligator sightings. Augustans might see more alligators appearing as they search for food. While our scaly friends are a common sight in Georgia, it’s essential to remain cautious. If you spot an alligator, remember, it’s a juvenile that’s probably just trying to find a snack!
Coyotes: Mischievous but Not Malicious
Food 101: Protecting Our Homes from Wildlife
To keep coyotes and other wildlife at bay, Parnell suggests securing your trash cans. “Avoid leaving out your garbage overnight, which attracts all kinds of wildlife, including coyotes, raccoons, possums, and foxes,” he warns. You might not think about it, but even bird feeders can create a buffet for critters, as spilled seeds attract rats, mice, and, yes, even coyotes!
Calling the Professionals
If wildlife becomes a nuisance, remember that the DNR does not trap coyotes, but residents can reach out to a licensed nuisance wildlife trapper for assistance. Or, if you’d prefer to handle it yourself, you can make some noise to encourage the animals to leave. “If you’re in an area with no houses around and you see a coyote in your yard, you can absolutely shoot it, if it’s safe to do so,” Parnell adds. Just make sure to check your local ordinances first!
Legal Guidelines for Wildlife Encounters
Maj. Steve Morris from the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office shares that it’s unlawful for residents to cause unjustifiable pain or suffering to any living animal unless you’re in compliance with game and fish laws. So, if you’re considering any action against wildlife, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations, especially if you live in a community with a homeowners association.
With autumn approaching, it seems like our furry, scaly, and feathered friends are getting ready for their season too. Stay alert, be responsible, and remember to appreciate the wildlife around us—it’s all part of living in beautiful Georgia!
