Show Low’s scenic landscapes and wildlife draw nature lovers, but feeding animals can harm both them and the environment. Here’s why it’s best to let wildlife be:
Disrupted Diets and Behavior
Human food can cause health issues in animals and make them reliant on people, abandoning vital foraging habits.Disease Risk
Feeding attracts more animals, increasing disease spread among them and, potentially, to humans.Dangerous Encounters
Animals losing fear of humans can lead to risky situations, and feeding smaller animals may attract predators like bears.Environmental Harm
Extra animals can damage plants, erode soil, and disrupt the ecosystem balance.Legal Consequences
In many areas, including parts of Arizona, feeding wildlife is illegal due to safety and environmental risks.
Respect wildlife by appreciating them from afar and allowing them to forage naturally.