In recent weeks, Airdrie has seen its share of wild neighbours — from bobcats and badgers to porcupines, skunks and deer — with officials reminding residents that such encounters aren’t unusual and knowing how to respond can keep both people and animals safe.
After we invited residents to share their own sightings, local resident Barbara Trudeau submitted photos of a Canada goose and goslings that hatched on her third-floor balcony in May. She said the family is still doing well, and she sees them frequently.
When asked how the birds made it to the ground, Trudeau said: “The fire department helped me out. They were absolutely the best help. They carried them down to their Mom for me.”
Wildlife experts say the same rules apply no matter the species:
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Keep pets leashed or indoors and supervise small animals outdoors.
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Remove outdoor food sources such as garbage, pet food, fallen fruit or bird feeders.
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Give wild animals space and never attempt to handle them.
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Leave young animals alone unless they are clearly injured or in immediate danger.
Bobcats, while shy and mostly active at dawn and dusk, may adapt to human activity and roam during the day. Small pets can be at risk, but attacks on people are extremely rare.
Badgers spend most of their time underground and will defend themselves if cornered.
Porcupines, mostly nocturnal, may rest on the ground during the day and can embed quills with a quick slap of the tail.
Skunks will stamp, hiss or growl before spraying, and coyotes will take advantage of unsecured garbage or pet food.
Even rabbits, hares and deer — common sights in Airdrie — can damage gardens and trees.
Earlier this summer, a porcupine prompted a partial dog park closure, and nearby Cochrane issued a “bear smart” reminder after a black bear was spotted on a local trail.
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