As the warmth of summer fades and the vibrant colors of fall take over, wildlife begins to adjust to the changing season, presenting unique challenges and opportunities for homeowners. Bears enter hyperphagia, increasing their food intake and seeking food near homes, requiring vigilance. Deer become more active and aggressive due to rutting, often moving closer to residential areas, leading to more frequent encounters. Cooler temperatures drive rodents indoors, increasing the risk of home damage. Meanwhile, bird migration offers unique bird-watching opportunities but also attracts predators, making it important to monitor small pets and outdoor areas. Understanding these changes and knowing how to prepare can help protect both your property and the wildlife that share your environment.
How to Prepare Yourself and Your Property:
Secure Food Sources: To prevent attracting bears and other wildlife, it’s essential to secure all potential food sources. Store garbage in bear-proof containers and keep them in a secured area until the morning of pickup. Bring pet food indoors, and avoid using bird feeders during peak bear activity. If you have outdoor grills, clean them thoroughly after each use to remove any lingering food smells.
Protecting Gardens and Fruit Trees: Gardens and fruit trees can be irresistible to wildlife, especially in the fall. Protect these areas with sturdy fencing, and consider using netting to deter birds from raiding fruit trees. Harvest ripe fruits promptly, and remove any fallen fruit from the ground to avoid attracting animals to your yard.
Rodent Proofing Your Home: To prevent rodents from making their way into your home, inspect the exterior for potential entry points, such as gaps around doors, windows, and the foundation. Seal any openings with steel wool, caulk, or weatherstripping. Consider placing traps or using natural deterrents like peppermint oil around potential entry points. Additionally, store food in airtight containers and regularly clean areas where crumbs or food scraps might accumulate.
Avoiding Wildlife Encounters: When spending time outdoors, especially in the early morning or late evening, be aware of your surroundings. Make noise to alert wildlife to your presence and carry bear spray if you’re in an area with bear activity. Keep pets on a leash and avoid letting them roam freely during peak wildlife activity times.
Emergency Contacts:
In case of a wildlife-related incident, it’s important to know who to contact. Keep a list of local wildlife agencies, animal control, and any relevant homeowner associations that can assist in managing wildlife encounters. Having these contacts readily available can save time in an emergency.
Lake George and Park County:
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Park County Animal Control: (719) 836-4380
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Park County Sheriff’s Office: (719) 836-4121
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Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) – Southeast Region Office: (719) 227-5200
Teller County:
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Teller County Animal Control: (719) 687-9652
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Teller County Sheriff’s Office: (719) 687-9652
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Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) – Pikes Peak Region Office: (719) 227-5200
As wildlife behavior shifts during the fall, it’s important for homeowners in mountainous regions to stay prepared. Anticipating these changes and taking proactive steps can help you coexist peacefully with local wildlife while safeguarding your property. For additional advice on getting your mountain home ready for fall or to explore available properties in the area, reach out to Realtor® Lorraine Amos at (719) 330-2740 or via email at lorraine@lorraineamos.com.
Areas: El Paso County, Teller County, and Park County.
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