The Town of Rocky Mountain House is encouraging residents to report any instances of unlawful feeding of wildlife within town limits.

Peace officers generally start with a warning for first offences, says Laura Button, communications coordinator with the Town of Rocky Mountain House, but after that the minimum fine for feeding or baiting of wild animals is $250.

She adds, peace officers, as well as RCMP and Fish & Wildlife are all authorized to enforce the bylaw.

The Prohibition of Feeding Wildlife Bylaw has been in place since 2021.

Button says feeding wildlife, including deer, has the potential to cause harm to the animal.

“It’s unsafe for the deer. They can become accustomed to human-provided food that puts them at greater risk of illness and mortality,” she points out. “It puts them at a greater risk of interacting with the public and with vehicles.”

Button adds that feeding wildlife can pose a risk to humans.

“Deer are of course wild animals and they can be unpredictable,” says Button. “They can seriously injure you and your pets or your children. Best practice is to just not feed the deer.”

Residents are encouraged to report any instances of feeding wildlife by calling the Town of Rocky Mountain House Protective Services at 403-846-4268.

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