Estes Park Living Library · Wildlife Guide · Chapter 10

Living Responsibly with Wildlife

A practical guide to sharing the Estes Valley with wildlife through responsible recreation, neighborhood stewardship, pet safety, photography ethics, and respect for natural behavior.

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Overview

Coexistence is part of mountain living.

Living in or visiting Estes Park means sharing the landscape with elk, bears, moose, bighorn sheep, coyotes, mountain lions, bobcats, birds, and many smaller species. Responsible choices help keep wildlife wild while protecting people, pets, and property.

Respecting wildlife today helps preserve Estes Park's natural character for future generations.

The Principles

Ten habits of responsible wildlife stewardship.

Keep your distance

Observe wildlife without changing its natural behavior.

Never feed wildlife

Human food creates unhealthy and dangerous behavior.

Control pets

Use leashes where required and supervise pets around wildlife.

Secure attractants

Store trash, bird seed, pet food, grills, and livestock feed properly.

Drive carefully

Wildlife often crosses roads at dawn, dusk, and overnight.

Stay on trails

Protect habitat, nests, and sensitive vegetation.

Respect closures

Seasonal wildlife closures protect breeding and nesting areas.

Photograph responsibly

Use zoom lenses instead of approaching wildlife.

Teach others

Share responsible wildlife practices with family and visitors.

Follow official guidance

Use current information from Rocky Mountain National Park and Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

Living in Bear Country

Reduce attractants around your home.

TRASH

Use bear-resistant storage

Put trash out only when allowed for collection and store it securely.

FEEDERS

Manage bird feeders

Remove feeders when they attract bears or during periods of bear activity.

GRILLS

Clean cooking equipment

Food residue and grease can attract wildlife.

Wildlife Photography

Great images begin with patience.

Use telephoto lenses

Avoid crowding wildlife for photos.

Don't bait wildlife

Never use food or calls to alter natural behavior.

Leave no trace

Pack out everything you bring into wildlife habitat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Responsible coexistence starts with good information.

FAQ

Should I feed wildlife?

No. Feeding wildlife changes natural behavior and increases conflict.

FAQ

Can bird feeders attract bears?

Yes. Feeders should be managed responsibly and removed if they attract bears.

FAQ

Who should I contact about dangerous wildlife?

Contact Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Rocky Mountain National Park staff, or local authorities as appropriate.

Continue Exploring

You've reached the end of Volume III.

Return to the Wildlife Guide or continue exploring the Living Library.

Official Sources

Recommended references

Rocky Mountain National Park
Wildlife safety and visitor guidance.
Wildlife Safety
Colorado Parks and Wildlife
Living with wildlife and species-specific guidance.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife

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