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Harmonizing
life for pets and wildlife
October 2,
2003
Autumn in southern Louisiana brings dozens of species of neo-tropical
migratory birds to our yards and gardens. By the time many of these tiny
travelers find their way to the Gulf Coast from their summer nesting
spots in Canada and the northern United States, they are hungry and
weary.
They hope to catch a bite or two (warblers eat insects), rest a little
and get ready for the risky flight across open ocean. A tough head wind
or modest tropical depression can cost the lives of thousands of birds
during their trek.
I was recently challenged by one of my friends who studies wildlife "to
do something about predatory pets" taking a toll on wild birds. So, I
decided to dedicate this week’s column to not only the birds, but also
the squirrels, rabbits, lizards, butterflies and even the occasional
nonvenomous snake found living among the landscaping and sharing our
pets’ world.
We’ve all known a tabby or two who’s an ace assassin, or a terrier who’s
a terrific terminator. They love stalking unsuspecting prey, then
pouncing, and ultimately showing off their spoils by dropping the
distressing results at our feet.
Yet the mere thought of limiting outdoor pets’ access to their rightful
"hunting grounds" causes controversy. None of us wishes to force our
beloved companion to forfeit a favorite activity, nor do we wish to
dwell too long on our pet’s hapless victims. However, there may be a
compromise that still permits our little "lions" and weensy "wolves" to
have fun without decimating the native wildlife.
By paying a little closer attention to the natural rhythms of our
backyard jungle, hundreds of needless deaths can be prevented. For
example, spring brings infant rabbits to our yards. Fledglings, older
chicks that have recently left their nests, are most prominent in
mid-spring. And young anoles, the lizards we mistakenly call chameleons,
are seen in their greatest numbers in late summer.
Young animals are often more vulnerable than adults. By securing our
pets through the early morning feeding period and by providing several
temporary safe zones by using some light garden fencing, many additional
animals can be spared. Other strategies suggest using collar bells as a
way of giving wildlife a heads-up, and making stalking more difficult by
placing bird feeders in open areas.
It’s only natural to want to indulge our companions. However, if we
extend just a little of the immense love, respect and consideration we
feel for our pets to the wild animals in our life, we can significantly
improve the quality of the their lives as well.
- Laura Maloney
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