As fall settles into the Pacific Northwest, the landscapes around Klahanie begin to change, and so does the behavior of the local wildlife. Many animals become more active with cooler temperatures and shorter days, preparing for winter or adjusting to the season’s new challenges. Here’s a guide to some of the wildlife you might encounter and how to prepare your home and yard to coexist with our wild neighbors safely and responsibly.
Common Wildlife in Fall
Klahanie is home to a variety of wildlife that can be more visible in the fall months:
Deer—As the weather cools, you may notice more deer around as they forage for food before winter. Deer are attracted to gardens and can damage shrubs, trees, and plants as they browse.
Coyotes—Coyotes are adaptable creatures. They are often more active during the fall as they hunt for food. They may venture closer to residential areas to hunt for small animals, garbage, or outdoor pet food.
Bears—As winter hibernation approaches, black bears become more active in the fall as they try to gain weight. While they typically stay in more wooded areas, they can be attracted to unsecured garbage, bird feeders, and fruit trees.
Raccoons - Raccoons remain active through the fall, scavenging for food in residential areas. They are notorious for rummaging through trash and finding their way into attics or sheds if given the opportunity.
Birds - Fall migration brings a variety of bird species through Issaquah as they head south for the winter. While some species leave, others settle in for the cooler months, making it a great time for birdwatchers.
Protecting Your Home and Yard
Here are a few steps to ensure your yard remains safe and wildlife-friendly without becoming a hotspot for nuisance animals.
Secure Your Garbage
Wildlife is often attracted to the smells of household waste. Be sure to use wildlife-resistant garbage cans or store them in your garage or a secure location until collection day. Compost piles can also attract animals if not properly managed.
Avoid Feeding Wildlife
While it can be tempting to feed deer or other animals, this often leads to them becoming too comfortable around humans, which can be dangerous for both the animals and residents. If you enjoy feeding birds, use bird feeders designed to deter larger animals like squirrels and raccoons.
Protect Your Garden
Deer can be deterred by using fences or deer-resistant plants in your landscaping. Installing motion-activated lights or sprinklers can also discourage deer, raccoons, and other wildlife from browsing in your yard.
Bring Pets Indoors at Night
Coyotes and other predators may be attracted to small pets left outside, especially at night. Bring pets indoors during the evening, and avoid leaving pet food outside.
Inspect and Maintain Your Home
Raccoons and other small animals may try to enter attics or crawl spaces in the cooler months to search for warmth. Ensure that all vents are adequately covered and that there are no openings or gaps where animals could enter your home.
Coexisting with Wildlife
Klahanie's wildlife plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem, especially during the fall as they gear up for winter. By taking simple precautions, we can coexist with these animals safely within our community.
If you encounter a wild animal behaving unusually or creating a safety hazard, contact the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife at (425) 775-1311 or a local wildlife control expert for guidance.
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