Wildlife

Red Deer County has a healthy wildlife population, and they enjoy many of the same spaces as we do. While there are many benefits to living near wild animals, it is important to know how to co-exist with these animals to minimize conflict and ensure the safety of residents, pets, livestock, and wildlife alike. Local wildlife may include:

  1. Bats
  2. Beavers
  3. Coyotes
  4. Deer
  5. Foxes
  6. Raccoons
  7. Skunks
  8. Snakes
  • Bats are naturally shy of humans. Having bats living nearby generally does not present a health risk to you or your pets.
  • Very few bats in Alberta have rabies, but it is always best to be cautious. Be extremely wary of bats that are active in the day or that seem unable to fly. Concerned about rabies? Call the Alberta Rabies Hotline.
  • Only handle bats with heavy leather gloves as Bats will bite. If a person is bitten, contact Alberta Health Link as soon as possible.
  • Leave bats sleeping outside alone. They fly away by nightfall when they wake up to feed. Bats that get inside will most likely find their way out if you leave a window or door open.
  • It is illegal to kill bats in Alberta. If evicting roosting bats, they cannot be disturbed while raising their pups - between Jun 1 & Sep 1. If it is not possible to wait until the fall to evict bats, contact your nearest Fish & Wildlife office.
  • For more comprehensive information, view this resource - Human-wildlife conflict – Bats


Fish & Wildlife Offices

Please contact Fish and Wildlife if you are facing imminent danger caused by wildlife or you see animals in distress.