This Grandma Did Get Run Over By a Deer

Over the weekend, a tranquil Silver Cliff neighborhood in Colorado became the scene of a shocking wildlife attack. A 67-year-old woman was violently gored by a deer while engaging in the seemingly harmless activity of putting out bird feed near her home.

The incident unfolded on Saturday evening, December 16, 2023, right outside the victim’s residence. She recounted the harrowing experience of the deer charging at her, using its antlers as weapons. The attack left her with a severe, bloody wound on her left leg and extensive bruising on the right leg.

In a desperate bid for safety, the woman managed to flee into her house and immediately sought help from her husband. The injuries were serious enough to necessitate her transport to a Pueblo hospital for urgent medical care. While her identity remains undisclosed, her condition post-attack was a matter of grave concern.

In a twist to the tale, authorities later observed two young bucks loitering in the woman’s yard, hinting at the possible cause of the attack. Officials from Colorado Parks and Wildlife pointed out that such aggression is not uncommon during the deer rutting season. The specific deer responsible for the attack, distinguished by two spikes on each of its antlers, is now the subject of an intensive search. Once located, the animal is slated to be euthanized to avert further human attacks.

Area Wildlife Manager Mike Brown expressed his surprise at this rare incident of deer aggression in the city. He speculated that the deer’s unusual fearlessness and aggression might stem from it being fed by locals, a practice that is illegal in Colorado. Feeding wildlife disrupts their natural behavior, often leading to dangerous situations such as this.

Brown emphasized the importance of respecting wildlife and maintaining a safe distance from them. He expressed relief that the woman’s injuries were not more severe but cautioned the public against underestimating the potential danger posed by wild animals, especially when they lose their natural fear of humans. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the fine line between our world and the wild.

Wildlife Safety Tips: Navigating the Thin Line Between Humans and Nature

In light of the recent deer attack in Colorado, it’s crucial to revisit and emphasize wildlife safety tips. As humans encroach on natural habitats, the likelihood of such encounters increases. Here are key safety tips to reduce risks and coexist peacefully with wildlife:

1. Maintain a Respectful Distance

• Give Space: Always keep a safe distance from wild animals. Even if they appear calm or friendly, sudden movements or perceived threats can trigger aggressive behavior.
• No Selfies: Resist the urge to take close-up photos with wildlife. This not only endangers you but also stresses the animals.

2. Do Not Feed Wild Animals

• Avoid Temptation: Feeding wildlife alters their natural behaviors, making them more aggressive and less fearful of humans. It’s not only dangerous but often illegal, as in the case of deer in Colorado.
• Secure Food Sources: Ensure that your garbage cans are secure and pet food is not left outside, as these can attract wild animals to your property.

3. Stay Alert in Natural Habitats

• Be Aware: When hiking or engaging in outdoor activities, stay alert to your surroundings. Many animals camouflage well, making them hard to spot until it’s too late.
• Noise is Your Friend: Make noise while trekking through wilderness areas to avoid startling animals.

4. Educate Children About Wildlife Safety

• Teach Respect: Educate children on the importance of respecting wildlife and the dangers of approaching or feeding them.
• Supervise Outdoors: Always supervise children when they are playing outside, especially in areas known for wildlife sightings.

5. Know What to Do in an Encounter

• Stay Calm: If you encounter a wild animal, remain calm and slowly back away. Avoid running or sudden movements, as this may trigger a chase.
• Defensive Tools: Consider carrying a personal alarm or bear spray when in known wildlife areas. These can be effective in deterring an animal without causing it harm.

6. Report Aggressive Wildlife

• Inform Authorities: If you encounter or hear of aggressive wildlife behavior, report it to local authorities or wildlife management. This helps in monitoring animal behavior and taking necessary actions to prevent future incidents.

7. Respect Wildlife Signs and Barriers

• Heed Warnings: Pay attention to signs warning of wildlife activity. These are often placed in known hotspots for animal crossings or habitats.
• Obey Barriers: Respect any physical barriers or cordons that are put in place to keep both humans and wildlife safe.

8. Understand the Behavior of Local Wildlife

• Stay Informed: Learn about the wildlife native to your area and their behavior, especially during mating seasons or when they are likely to have young with them, as they can be more protective and aggressive during these times.

 

By adopting these practices, we can significantly reduce the risk of dangerous wildlife encounters and ensure a harmonious coexistence with the creatures that share our environment. Remember, wildlife deserves our respect and space, and by doing so, we protect both them and ourselves.

As always, be safe and be prepared.

 

See also:

• Tragic Outcome: Arizona Tragedy Highlights the Dangers of Wildlife Interaction
• Arizona Man Killed by Bear in Unprovoked Attack
• Surge in Self-Defense Shootings of Grizzly Bears: The Montana Controversy and Safety Measures
• Rabid Coyote Attacks Woman in Fall River, Killed by Police
• Using Pepper Spray on Dogs, Lions, Tigers, and Bears