Please, Don't Feed the Wild Animals

As tempting as it may be to feed those cute little squirrels on your back porch, or to leave some food out for animals during the coldest winter months, resist the urge.

It is actually against a rule that was approved by the Reston Association board of directors in May 2008. The resolution states the feeding of non-domesticated wild animals (except songbirds) is prohibited. Some of these animals include foxes, deer, squirrels, skunks, raccoons and opossums.

"Many people who love wildlife assume that feeding helps them survive harsh winters or are helping them survive," said Claudia Thompson-Deahl, environmental resource manager for Reston Association. "Instead, these efforts put the animals that are fed at risk as they grow accustomed to human activity and lose their fear of people. These wild animals may become bold and aggressive, or even dangerous to people and pets," 

The Reston Association believes this rule is so important to the health and safety of residents that they can actually place a lien on a person's house if they choose to ignore the rule. Thompson-Deahl said this action has not yet been needed.

Feeding animals is dangerous for a variety of reasons, says Charles Smith, a naturalist for the Fairfax County Park Authority. Not only does it cause animals to loose their fear of people, but it spreads disease by congregating animals that would not normally be so close together.

And although pets can be in danger from the larger species, others such as snakes and rodents are at risk for attacks from pets and from scared homeowners.

"Wildlife is best left wild," Smith said. "These animals are not pets and should rely on the carrying capacity of the natural systems, not handouts from humans."

Part of the RA rule also says residents should not leave pet food outside, which may unintentionally attract unwanted animals.