DENVER, COLORADO — In a renewed effort to protect its natural inhabitants, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) is emphasizing the importance of not feeding wildlife. While the gesture of feeding animals might seem benign or even generous, it poses serious risks to their health and disrupts their natural behaviors.
Under state law, it is illegal to feed big game animals in Colorado, including deer, elk, and moose. Many local jurisdictions have extended these prohibitions to include smaller wildlife such as squirrels and rabbits. Violations can lead to hefty fines, but more importantly, they can result in severe health issues or death for the animals involved.
“Feeding wildlife can lead to unhealthy dependencies, alter natural behaviors, and spread disease,” stated a CPW spokesperson. “We must respect our wild neighbors by observing them from a distance and keeping our ecosystems intact.”
To combat this issue creatively, CPW has released a unique educational campaign featuring song parodies based on popular tunes that illustrate the dangers of feeding wildlife. These include adaptations of classics like ‘Another Brick in the Wall’ and ‘Never Gonna Give You Up,’ aimed at resonating with the public on a cultural level. The songs, inspired by real incidents where humans improperly interacted with wildlife, are available for download through CPW’s online toolkit, which can be accessed here.
In addition to these musical reminders, CPW offers several online resources to educate the public on how to coexist safely and ethically with wildlife. These resources provide tips on observing wildlife from a safe distance, the importance of keeping dogs leashed in natural areas, and the proper steps to take if one encounters a sick or injured animal.
For more detailed information and to access the full suite of educational materials, visit CPW’s official sites:
- Living with Wildlife
- Spring Wildlife
- Avoid Conflicts with Wildlife
- Conservation and Management
Through these initiatives, Colorado Parks and Wildlife continues to advocate for the well-being of wildlife and the safety of all who enjoy Colorado’s natural beauty.
