Tips For Protecting Your Garden From Deer In Utah

Wildlife officials are reminding Utah residents to expect increased wildlife activity in neighborhoods this summer as extreme drought conditions continue to reduce natural food and water sources across the state.

According to a press release from the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, deer and other animals may move into residential areas in search of vegetation and water, creating challenges for homeowners and potential safety concerns for both people and wildlife.

Deterrents Include Fencing, Sprinklers

For residents hoping to protect gardens, flowers and landscaping from hungry deer, wildlife experts recommend installing an eight-foot fence around gardens or yards. Officials say fencing is often the most reliable method for preventing deer from accessing plants. Motion-activated sprinklers can also help discourage wildlife from lingering in yards, while planting less-palatable vegetation around the perimeter of gardens may provide an additional deterrent.

Courtesy Utah Division of Wildlife Resources

The DWR also encourages residents who live in areas frequented by big game animals to explore deer-friendly landscaping options and wildlife-friendly fencing techniques.

While some people may feel compelled to help wildlife by providing food or water during drought conditions, officials strongly advise against doing so. Feeding wildlife can create public safety issues, contribute to the spread of chronic wasting disease among deer, elk and moose, and expose animals to foods that are not part of their natural diets.

“The best way you can help wildlife is by letting animals stay wild,” said Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Big Game Coordinator Mike Wardle in the press release. “Don’t approach them, and don’t try to feed them. Often people’s good intentions wind up doing more harm than good for the wildlife. It can also be really dangerous when deer, moose or bears become habituated and lose their fear of people.”

Residents are encouraged to report wildlife that appears sick, injured or unusually aggressive. Moose that wander into city limits or heavily populated areas should also be reported. Cougar sightings should be reported if the animal has killed a pet or other animal in a neighborhood or is displaying threatening behavior.

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For bears, wildlife officials generally recommend allowing the animal to move through residential foothill or canyon areas on its own. However, residents should contact the DWR if a bear becomes aggressive, repeatedly gets into trash or fruit trees, causes property damage, or enters campgrounds, city limits or densely populated communities.