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Avoid Feeding Wildlife to Protect Public Health

Staff Report / atxlocal.org

Austin Animal Center in Austin, Texas, has reported an increase in incidents where residents are feeding or getting too close to wildlife. The center emphasizes the importance of maintaining a safe distance from wildlife to protect both people and animals. Human-wildlife interactions can contribute to the spread of infectious diseases, with 60% of these diseases originating from wildlife.

Austin is home to the world's largest urban bat colony, consisting of approximately 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats residing under the South Congress bridge. As a result, residents and visitors are urged to exercise caution.

According to Texas law, any person who comes into physical contact with a high-risk rabies species, such as bats, is required to have the animal tested for rabies. Young wildlife may appear adorable but it is essential for their survival that they remain wild and maintain a healthy fear of humans.

Feeding wildlife can lead to food conditioning, where animals become dependent on humans for food instead of hunting or foraging. This behavior can result in aggressive actions, posing risks to both wildlife and residents.

The Austin Animal Center encourages everyone to keep wildlife wild by avoiding feeding or touching them. If you encounter sick or injured wildlife or have any questions, you can contact 311 to speak with a Wildlife Officer.

Source: Austin Animal Center

Source Type: Community

Source Location: Austin

Sep 18, 2024 at 11:00 AM

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