To everything there is a season, and for mule deer bucks that is the fall rut.
According to the B.C. Ministry of Environment, in the weeks leading up to the late-autumn mating (rutting) period, bucks increase their displays of dominance and indirect threats. A dominant buck typically circles a rival with deliberate steps, back arched, head low and tail flicking. The subordinate buck frequently bolts away. Bucks also display dominance by violently thrashing the bushes with their antlers. During the rutting season in November and early December, mature bucks of equal size engage in serious head to head fights.
The City of Kimberley is hoping that people will use caution and common sense this fall as the bucks begin their courtship.
“We are into a transition period where some does with fawns remain wary and potentially aggressive toward humans with dogs,” said Kimberley Bylaw Enforcement Officer Rich Klekowski. “Now we could also see an increase in aggressive activity from the local urban buck population. Residents are reminded to please give deer plenty of space to move or leave the area.”
Klekowski recommended finding another route rather than walking near the deer.
Acts of deer aggression should be reported to the City (250-427-5311 or email info@kimberley.ca) or Conservation Officer service (1-877-952-7277). Both organizations keep track of these instances of aggressive deer. The City of Kimberley also has a brochure, entitled Living with Urban Deer. Is is available for pick up at city hall or you can download a copy online at kimberley.ca
In addition to deer, fall is also the season where bear sightings become more common in Kimberley.
Klekowski says that the best way to keep bears away from your property is to store your garbage properly andmake sure you only put it out between the hours of 5 and 7:30 a.m. the day of pick up.
You can also keep both deer and bear out of your yard by picking your fruit trees. This seems to be a year for bumper crops of apples and plums and they are a real attractant.
Wildsight Kimberley/Cranbrook has a variety of apple capture equipment, including apple grinders and presses for making juice. You can book the equipment online at http://www.wildsight.ca/kimcran/apples/
You can also post information if you have a tree you’d like to share.
Wildsight’s Kimberley/Cranbrook branch will also have two community apple pressing days in October.