Wildlife

Living with wildlife in Cochrane

Cochrane is home to a diverse range of wildlife, from deer and foxes to coyotes and bears. Sharing our community with these animals is part of what makes living here unique. However, it’s important to understand how we can coexist safely and responsibly. By respecting wildlife and their habitats, we can protect both them and ourselves while maintaining the natural beauty that surrounds us.  

General tips for coexisting with wildlife:  

• Secure attractants. Keep garbage, recycling and organics bins tightly sealed, remove fallen fruit or birdseed and store pet food indoors.  
• Maintain property boundaries. Seal crawl spaces, vents and other potential shelters to deter animals.  
• Leash pets. Always keep dogs on-leash (except in designated off-leash areas) and keep cats indoors.  
• Be alert. Watch for wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk, when many animals are more active. 
• Work with your neighbours. Let your neighbours know if you have seen wildlife nearby and share these tips to promote responsible wildlife management.   

Bears in Cochrane

Bears are most active in spring, when they emerge hungry from hibernation, and fall, when they seek food to prepare for hibernation. To minimize contact and stay safe: 

• Put waste, recycling and organics carts out the morning of collection day — not the night before. 
• Remove bird feeders between April 1 and November 30. 
• Clean your barbecue after each use, and store it indoors.  
• Regularly harvest fruit trees and berry bushes, or consider removing them entirely. 
• Never leave food out for bears or other wildlife. 
• If you see a bear, let your neighbours know. 
• Follow and share the tips in the Government of Alberta’s The BearSmart Guide (PDF).

Fawns in Cochrane

Cochrane is home to many fawns and their protective moms. Help keep them safe:  

• Admire them from afar — never approach fawns or their mothers.  
• Keep dogs leashed to avoid confrontations.  
• Secure your yard to keep them from wandering in and getting stuck or injured.  

Foxes in Cochrane 

Fox sightings are common in Cochrane, particularly in the spring. To keep them at a safe distance:  

•  Remove food sources, such as fallen fruit or pet food left outdoors.  
• Seal off crawl spaces and other potential shelters to discourage foxes from nesting. 
• Spread the word about managing attractants in your neighbourhood.

Skunks in Cochrane 

Skunks are remarkable creatures but can become unwelcome guests.  

During mating season, which typically occurs from February to March in our region, skunks become more active as they seek out mates.  

Here are some tips to navigate this season smoothly: 

• Keep your distance. Skunks may be more territorial during mating season, so give them space to do their thing. 
• Keep garbage, recycling and organics bins tightly sealed, remove fallen fruit or birdseed and store pet food indoors. 
• Leash pets to prevent unexpected encounters. 

Coyotes in Cochrane 

Coyotes are a sign of a healthy ecosystem and help control the populations of other wildlife, such as rodents. To minimize conflicts: 

• Clean and maintain bird feeders and fruit-bearing trees and shrubs. 
• Keep pets supervised and on-leash.  
• Dispose of pet waste to avoid attracting coyotes. 

By following these tips and encouraging others to do the same, we can enjoy Cochrane’s unique wildlife while fostering a safe and harmonious environment for everyone. For more information, visit Alberta’s wildlife resources.  

Living With Wildlife