HELENA – One of the appeals of living in Montana for many folks is having access to wildlands right out the back door, but that access can also bring confrontation with wildlife.
Law enforcement across the state say it’s not unusual this time of year to see deer that have gotten their antlers caught in Christmas lights or other yard decorations.
Helena Police say issues with urban deer can happen at any time of the year and they have seen everything from deer stuck in deck railings to volleyball nets.
If the item wrapped around their antlers isn’t turning them or preventing them from eating, officers may leave the deer alone since the antlers will drop over the winter.
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks officials caution people to not approach a deer that may be stuck since it may cause the deer stress, to hurt itself or to attack.
“These sort of things happen with animals around town, but the best thing to do is just to give the deer [or any other animal] their space,” said FWP spokesperson Greg Lemon.
Anyone who comes across a deer or any other animal that has gotten caught or stuck in something is encouraged to call local law enforcement as soon as possible.
-John Riley reporting for MTN News
