For the Townsman
Residents are reminded that if you see or have issues with any wildlife, please call the Provincial RAPP line to report it at 1-877-952-7277, 24 hours a day, 7 days per week.
This information is passed along directly to the local branch of the Conservation Officer Service, where it is recorded and depending on the wildlife issue it will be responded to.
Please do not contact City of Cranbrook Bylaw staff or the local branch of the SPCA with wildlife issues. They are only able to deal with domestic animals – not wildlife.
However, around issues with urban deer, residents are encouraged to contact the RAPP line first toll free at 1-877-952-7277 (RAPP), but are also asked to report the issue to the City of Cranbrook for its records by calling 250-426-4211 or emailing urbandeer@cranbrook.ca.
City staff may not be able to respond directly to all emails or phone messages around urban deer issues, however staff will be sure to record those complaints.
It is also important to remember that late May through June is historically the time of year does give birth to their fawns. Does will drive away their offspring from the previous year and look for a secluded place to give birth.
Deer have one or two fawns per year and triplets do occur once in a while. The white-spotted fawn relies on its colouration, lack of scent and silence for protection. It is quite common for does to leave fawns hidden while they forage in the area, returning occasionally to nurse. If you come across a fawn, it is best to leave it alone.
It is also important for residents to remember that does with fawns are very wary of their surroundings and can act or react aggressively if they feel threatened. Give the deer plenty of space to either move or leave the area.
Do not walk closer to the deer, choose another route. Be sure to walk your dog on a leash and be ready to let go of the leash if a deer attacks.