The Town of Okotoks is warning the public about some aggressive animals in town.
They took to social media twice this week to let residents know about aggressive animals in town.
On Monday (June 16), the Town reported there is an aggressive deer in Banister Park, and on Tuesday, they warned residents of an aggressive coyote in Sheep River Cove.
Signs will be posted to let people know to use caution in the area and to always give deer their space, keep dogs on leash, and never walk between a doe and her fawns.
Okotoks is on a wildlife corridor, and because of that, there will be animals in town, especially in the river valley.
Due to the amount of wildlife in the area, the Town has a bylaw that prohibits people feeding wild animals on private property, and they discourage people feeding any wild animal in either parks or natural areas, to not approach the wild animal, and do not leave pet or bird feed outside within reach of deer or other wildlife.
On top of that, to help discourage deer from hanging out in people's yards, the Town suggests spraying the deer with a garden hose, remove attractants such as crab apples and Halloween pumpkins from the property, use scare tactics such as mobile yard ornaments, use chemical deterrents, or plant unpalatable garden plant species.
While feeding wildlife has become more common in Alberta, Okotoks' deer population could see problems in the future if they are fed by residents, as feeding wildlife could end up threatening public safety.
While deer are common in Okotoks and aren't typically considered dangerous, they could see dogs and humans as a threat and can act aggressively to protect themselves and their fawns.
An aggressive deer will chase or kick at a person or pet, which could result in damage or injury, and if someone experiences an aggressive deer, contact Report-A-Poacher immediately.
Fawning season in Alberta is typically from May through June, and in order to keep the fawn safe, the doe will leave her fawn in a secluded area for upwards of 12 hours, distracting predators away from the baby deer while the mom is foraging for food.
Predators, such as coyotes and cougars, are most active at dusk and dawn, so the Town is advising people to be cautious in the River Valley, particularly at those times, or to avoid the area completely.
If a cougar, bear, aggressive deer, or aggressive coyote is spotted, call Report-A-Poacher at 1-800-642-3800, but if you feel threatened or are under attack by a wild animal, call 9-1-1.
To learn more about animals in Okotoks and what to do if you encounter one, head over to the Town of Okotoks website.