By Saskatchewan Environment

Don't Feed The Wildlife

Let the Wildlife Be Wild

Mar 2, 2021 | 9:17 AM

Saskatchewan’s recent stretch of harsh weather has raised some wildlife welfare questions across the province.

Most species are resilient and well-adapted to surviving our winters. However, in order to find food and shelter, wildlife will sometimes congregate in yards, communities and feed storage areas, causing damage.

The natural inclination is to put out feed, but that isn’t a great solution.

Trying to help wildlife through supplemental feeding, or feeding programs, can cause these animals more harm than good. When deer eat carbohydrate-rich food sources during the winter, such as grain or hay, they can die from a process known as rumen acidosis, or bloat.

Supplemental feeding has other negative consequences, such as drawing animals in from long distances and away from good winter cover. It can also increase predation and disease transmission.

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Winter mortality is an unfortunate aspect of nature. The ministry is aware of these issues and will adjust species management strategies accordingly.