The Association has been made aware of increasing concerns about feeding wildlife in and around our community park areas. Recent observations indicate that this activity is negatively affecting both native wildlife behavior and resident safety.
Over the past several days, residents walking dogs in the park have reported an unusual number of squirrels approaching people directly, including descending from trees onto walkways. This behavior is a noticeable change from prior conditions and strongly suggests that wildlife has become accustomed to being fed by humans.
As a result, squirrels have lost their natural fear of people and pets, creating potentially dangerous situations. Dogs have nearly caught squirrels on multiple occasions, and in at least one instance, a squirrel did not retreat when a person attempted to scare it away from a walkway, remaining within close proximity. These interactions put wildlife at risk of serious injury and increase the likelihood of accidents involving residents and pets.
Feeding wildlife also disrupts natural diets and the local ecosystem. Other animals and birds rely on the same food sources, and human interference can unintentionally deprive them of nutrition. Native wildlife is fully capable of surviving without supplemental feeding, and doing so alters natural behavior patterns in harmful ways.
There are additional safety concerns for residents walking pets. A dog that suddenly lunges toward wildlife can cause a handler to lose balance, increasing the risk of falls or injury due to a forcefully pulled leash.
The POA encourages all residents to refrain from feeding wildlife and to help preserve the safety and natural balance of our shared spaces. Consideration is also being given to installing signage in common areas to reinforce this message and provide education on why feeding wildlife is harmful.
The cooperation of all residents is appreciated in maintaining a safe, respectful, and healthy environment for both our community and the native wildlife that live within it.
