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. The prohibition applies to bears, bighorn sheep, deer, elk, pronghorn, moose, mountain goats and mountain lions. Violators face a $100 fine.

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DEER & ELK

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Deer and elk eat wild grasses, forbs and shrubs. Their specialized stomachs can get nutrients out of these tough-to-digest foods. When they eat corn, bird seed, apples, grain or other high-carbohydrate foods, their stomachs produce too much acid, causing a disease known as acidosis. Many animals die quickly from the acidosis immediate effects; others may live longer but eventually die from liver or brain damage or dehydration. 

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TURKEYS

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Turkeys and wild birds typically have plenty to eat naturally in Elk Springs. Feeding turkeys invites them closer to people, and habituates them to non-native food sources. Turkeys can be dangerous when provoked, have large spurs, powerful beaks which pose risks to people and pets. It's best to admire our many turkeys from a safe distance. Never allow off leash pets to chase or harass turkeys (or any wildlife).

FEEDING BIRDS

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Bird feeders can become bear feeders. An easily accessible bird feeder can “teach” bears that it’s safe to search for food in areas where people live. Bird feeders are only appropriate in the winter months, when bears are hibernating. In the spring and summer months, when bears are active, you can attract birds by using nest boxes or creating a bird garden, or with hanging flower pots and a bird bath. 

BEST PRACTICES FOR BIRD FEEDERS

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• Use multiple feeders to avoid crowding.

• Do not feed on the ground. Avoid platform feeders that allow birds to defecate on feeding surfaces.

• Remove bird feeders in the spring and through the fall to avoid them becoming "bear feeders." Bring them in at night. 

• Regularly eliminate scattered seed from the ground.

• Clean feeders every two weeks (in the dishwasher or using soapy water, followed by a rinse with 10% bleach solution).

• Always keep bird seed dry.

• Wear gloves and wash hands after handling feeders.

• Never allow pets to play with or consume sick or dead birds.

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Source Colorado Parks & Wildlife ​

HOW CAN HUMANS SUPPORT WILDLIFE?

• Do not approach, touch, or feed wild animals. 

• Enjoy wildlife from a safe distance. 

• Keep your dog on a leash on trails. Dogs can be very disruptive to elk from a great distance. If you see elk, leash your dog and stay as far from them as possible. 

• 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.