Residents are being asked by the BCSPCA to ensure their yards are safe for critters as the seasons for Halloween decor and Christmas lights near.
Fort St John is no stranger to animal visitors as the city put out a notice cautioning people around Northern Lights College of a moose in the forest adjacent to the campus on Sept. 10.
The society for prevention of cruelty to animals said, “it’s not uncommon for wild animals to get stuck in things we throw away or that get left in their environment.” While they aren’t litter, outdoor decorations are equally risky for animals.
Fake spiderwebs are much spookier for birds than they are for humans. The BCSPCA said cobwebs laid around the yard or on trees pose the risk of animals getting stuck in them.
Anyone who comes across a stuck bird should “cut the webbing around the entangled area to free the bird” and call the society’s animal hotline for advice. There are no rehabilitators in the Peace that are members of the Wildlife Rehabilitators’ Network of B.C.
Christmas lights are another risk to wildlife, especially deer. The festive season, from mid-October to December, is also deer mating season. During the rut, deer will rub their heads on trees, stomp their hooves, and push each other.
The rubbing during the rut is where the danger lays, according the BCSPCA, who said their antlers may become intertwined with the lights. Garden netting and similar items that use strings to dangle may also cause issues for the large animals.
“Hang your Christmas lights high to avoid an antler tangle,” said the animal safety group. People who do not heed their advice should call an officer from the B.C. Conservation Service if they see a deer that is stuck and cannot move – though the society cautioned it may be too dangerous for officers to help if the deer is in distress.
If the animal can walk away without the lights wrapping around its neck, there is a chance it will shed the item, alongside its antlers, at the end of the season.
