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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.
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.
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.
Reduce attractants around your home.
Use bear-resistant storage
Put trash out only when allowed for collection and store it securely.
Manage bird feeders
Remove feeders when they attract bears or during periods of bear activity.
Clean cooking equipment
Food residue and grease can attract wildlife.
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.
Responsible coexistence starts with good information.
Should I feed wildlife?
No. Feeding wildlife changes natural behavior and increases conflict.
Can bird feeders attract bears?
Yes. Feeders should be managed responsibly and removed if they attract bears.
Who should I contact about dangerous wildlife?
Contact Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Rocky Mountain National Park staff, or local authorities as appropriate.
You've reached the end of Volume III.
Return to the Wildlife Guide or continue exploring the Living Library.
Recommended references
Rocky Mountain National Park
Wildlife safety and visitor guidance.
Wildlife SafetyColorado Parks and Wildlife
Living with wildlife and species-specific guidance.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife