What You Need to Know to Keep Wild Animals Alive

Every day there are animals dying or being put down as a result of negative but avoidable interactions with humans. Here’s what you can do to prevent these unnecessary deaths:

• Observe wildlife from a distance and travel quietly so they are not scared or forced to flee (except in grizzly bear country where making noise to alert bears to your presence is often recommended)
• When possible keep your group small to decrease the likelihood of disturbing wildlife
• Do not touch, get close to, feed or handle wild animals
• If you find sick animals or animals in trouble notify a ranger
• Store food, trash and other “smellable” items securely and keep garbage and food scraps away from animals
• Allow animals free access to precious water sources by giving them the buffer space they need to feel secure
• Keep pets under control at all times when enjoying the outdoors
• Remember – animals live in the outdoors, we’re just the visitors. Do your part to keep wildlife wild!

To learn more about why these recommendations exist, check out Leave No Trace’s Respect Wildlife information.

Thank you for taking the time to refresh your Leave No Trace skills regarding wildlife. If you would like to support this type of critical education please donate to our protect wildlife campaign right now. A $5 or $10 gift can help give wildlife their best chance at survival.

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