Lakeridge Estate neighbors got a gruesome reminder last week that predatory animals live in the area.
A deer carcass was found near a frequently used private trail around what neighbors refer to as “Nubgaard Pond” in the Lakeridge Estates neighborhood last week. A hind leg was still visible in the area yesterday (see photo). An abundance of deer tracks through the area indicates it is also a popular path for deer.
Washington State Fish & Wildlife (WDFW) Game Warden Dave Jones said this was likely the result of a kill by coyotes which frequent the area.
Jones says 9 times out of 10, coyotes are to blame in these situations. But they are not the only predators in the Ferndale area. Last year, there were multiple sightings of a juvenile bear and cougars are also known to live in the area.
Click for more information
Click for more informationThe WDFW website advises coyotes “eat any small animal they can capture” and groups will pursue small deer.
To prevent conflicts with predatory wildlife, WDFW advises:
* Do not leave small children unattended
* Keep dogs and cats indoors, especially from dusk to dawn
* Don’t give wildlife access to garbage by keeping garbage can lids on tight
* Feed dogs and cats indoors
* Do not feed feral cats since predators prey on these cats as well as any feed you leave out