WHEN
WILDLIFE PAYS YOU A VISIT
As
people move out to the edges of the wild places, they have more
encounters with wild critters. Not just hiking, biking and camping,
but in the construction and maintenace of homes.
Many homes built during fall and winter are right on top of
hibernating snakes and tortoises. Bulldozers are digging up
squirrel burrows and bunny nests. As trees and cactus are trimmed
or cut down, bird nests are being destroyed.
Dealing with wildlife situations does not have to be a problem.
Do
not reach for snakes, even with an implement, if you are
not experienced in handling them.
 If
you have a "pest" problem, remember that poisons do not
always affect the animal you intend it for...it could be
your pet, or a hawk that eats the critter that has been
poisoned.
Just
filling in holes may not deter the animal. Many burrowing
critters have multiple entrances. Placing ammonia soaked rags
at one of the entrances will usually drive the animal away.
Once
the critters are out from under there, close up the area.
If you use metal skirting the animals cannot chew it,
but they may dig under, so bury it a few inches.
The
biggest mistake people make is leaving food outside for
their pets. It only serves as a free buffet for wildlife.
It is best to feed your pets and then remove uneaten food
when they are done.
Close
"doggie doors" and garages completely - especially at night.
If your pet can come in...so can a wild critter.
 ***Cats
should not be allowed to roam free at any time. They are responsible
for more than 75% of the injuries we receive and countless
dead animals that never make it to us. It is also very dangerous
for the cat. They are often eaten by coyotes or bobcats, or
hit by cars. They also become a source of contamination by
bringing fleas and disease into your home.***
When
hiring a tree trimmer or lawn maintenance company, PLEASE
instruct them to look for nests before they start and be
sure that they will handle the following situations humanely:
 Nesting
birds are protected under state and federal laws. Nests
should not be disturbed, moved or destroyed.
Before
clearing shrubs or mowing lawns, check for ground nests
(bunnies, quail, ducks.)
When
using irrigation, check the canal for small animals that
may have fallen in and cannot climb out.
If
you have a pool or large windows, take these precautions
to avoid wildlife injuries:
Birds
can not see glass. They will fly into it. Hang something in
or outside of windows.
Wild
animals see water, especially at night, as something solid.
Check your pool often for possible drowning victims and
consider a cover that will protect not only the critters,
but your young children as well.
Keep
in mind that wildlife prefers to avoid humans, but nature
is being pushed to the wall, and they do not have much choice.
Desert
Cry can assist with additional advice or referrals to humane,
ethical removal services should you have nuisance wildlife.
WHEN
YOU PAY WILDLIFE A VISIT
When
people, or their pets, encounter wildlife, the wildlife
usually loses. Please follow these guidelines and HELP
SAVE A WILD LIFE!
Keep
voices quiet, your presence will disturb and scare off wild
animals. Remaining quiet, still and patient is the only
way to see wild animals.
Do
not sit on or reach under logs and rocks. There could be
a rattlesnake or some other venomous creature sleeping there.
Do
not leave trash or food along the way. This will teach wildlife
to associate with humans, which is dangerous to us AND them.
When
hiking with your dog, be sure it is always on a leash and
under your control. Not just within the sound of your voice.
This
is not only a state law, but it will keep your pet safe.
Dogs will run off (chasing some poor, wild critter) and
get lost. They can come into contact with a venomous creatire,
be attacked, hurt or killed by predators.
If
a cat or dog has been in contact with the animal, even if
you do not see an injury, IT IS SERIOUS!
Follow
these steps:
Do not
pick up any animal just because it is alone.
If you
can determine that the animal is injured or in distress,
Put
the animal in a covered box and keep it warm and quiet.
DO
NOT give any food or water to any wild animal.
Call
a wildlife rehabilitator (or click here)
and get the animal to them immediately!
Although
it may seem like the best thing to do...DO NOT take a wild
animal to a veterinary clinic. Many veterinarians are
not usually knowledgable about wildlife. They are likely to
call one of us anyway. This will delay the critical care needed.
|
|
