Wildlife is all around us. As neighborhoods continue to grow, encounters with animals like birds, squirrels, deer, and other native species are becoming more common. Most wildlife is simply passing through or trying to find food, shelter, or a safe place to raise young.

Understanding how to peacefully coexist helps keep both people and animals safe, and allows wildlife to remain wild.

Raccoons

• Raccoons are a common and important part of our local wildlife. They are highly intelligent, adaptable, and usually just passing through while foraging for food.
• Raccoon breeding season typically begins in late winter (January–March). During this time, they may seek warm, quiet spaces to den or raise young.
• If a raccoon enters your home, stay calm and give it space. Open a clear exit to the outdoors if it’s safe to do so, leave the area, and allow the animal to leave on its own.
• Never approach, corner, or handle a raccoon. This can be dangerous for both people and the animal.
• Once the raccoon has left, secure your home by sealing entry points and removing outdoor food sources to prevent future visits.
• To learn more click here.

Deer

• As wildlife habitats overlap with developed areas, deer are being seen more often near homes. They are generally shy animals and will avoid people whenever possible.
• Breeding season (rut) occurs in the fall (typically October–November). During this time, deer may be more active, less cautious, and seen during daylight hours.
• In late spring and early summer, fawns are often left alone. This is normal behavior, mother deer leave their young hidden while they forage nearby. A fawn that appears alone is usually not abandoned.
• Do not approach or attempt to help deer. This includes touching fawns or trying to move adult deer, which can cause stress or injury.
• Give deer plenty of space and keep pets leashed. If a deer is injured or in immediate danger, contact a licensed wildlife professional.
• For more information click here.

Fox

• Foxes are adaptable, shy predators that usually avoid humans and play an important role in controlling rodent and insect populations.
• Breeding season occurs in late winter to early spring (February–March), and kits are born in hidden dens.
• If a fox enters your property or home, remain calm. Give it space and a clear path to leave on its own.
• Never approach, corner, or feed a fox. They are wild animals and can bite if frightened.
• Secure garbage, pet food, and other attractants to prevent foxes from lingering.
• If a fox appears injured or aggressive, contact a licensed wildlife professional for assistance.
• To learn more click here.

Bats

• Bats are essential to our ecosystem, helping control insects and pollinate plants. Most bats are harmless and avoid humans.
• Breeding season typically occurs in late spring to early summer, with mothers forming maternity colonies to raise their pups.
• If a bat enters your home, stay calm. Close interior doors, turn off lights, and open a window or door to the outside so it can exit safely.
• Never handle bats with bare hands. They can carry diseases such as rabies, so always use gloves or call a licensed wildlife professional if removal is necessary.
• Seal gaps and repair screens to prevent future entries, especially near attics or eaves where bats may roost.
• If a bat appears injured, trapped, or in contact with people or pets, contact local wildlife authorities for safe handling.
• For more information click here.