Helena animal control sees more wildlife calls as seasons change
HELENA, Mont. — As the seasons begin to shift in Helena, animal control said wildlife sightings and unwanted encounters often pick up around town.
Photo: Helena Police Department
As the seasons begin to shift in Helena, animal control said wildlife sightings and unwanted encounters often pick up around town. Sean McCarthy, an urban wildlife animal control officer with the City of Helena, said the agency handles hundreds of wildlife-related calls each year and that number keeps growing.
HELENA, Mont. — As the seasons begin to shift in Helena, animal control said wildlife sightings and unwanted encounters often pick up around town.
Officials said people may see deer, foxes, raccoons, skunks and other animals moving through neighborhoods as they search for food and prepare for changing conditions. Helena Animal Control also reported a rise in calls when summer was winding down.
Sean McCarthy, an urban wildlife animal control officer with the City of Helena, said the agency handles hundreds of wildlife-related calls each year and that number keeps growing.
“We do on average around 700 wildlife specific calls every year. That number is showing an increase by about 8% every year. So, we are seeing an increase in that call load,” McCarthy said.
McCarthy explained there are ways people could lower the chances of wildlife problems at home. He said residents should secure garbage, keep trash can lids sealed, avoid leaving pet food outside overnight and clean up fallen fruit from trees.
McCarthy adds people should call their local agency if an animal appears sick, injured or is creating a public safety concern.