It seems that many residents participate in feeding wildlife – specifically deer and sometimes even raccoons – and may not know how harmful that can be.
As of May 2025, it is illegal to feed wildlife in Washington State (WAC 220-440-260), and it is now prohibited by our Rules and Regulations to feed wildlife, after the board adopted Resolution 26-07 Amending Rules & Regs Part I – General, to include Feeding Wildlife (except birds) as a prohibited activity and finable offense.
While you may think you are ‘helping’ the deer and wildlife by feeding them, it is ultimately damaging to their digestive systems and has severe consequences. The digestive systems of free-ranging elk or deer cannot properly digest processed food. Even fruit and grains are not a normal part of a deer’s diet and can be extremely difficult to digest. Corn and apples are specifically challenging for them to digest. These foods can ultimately lead to starvation, because their bodies are unable to properly absorb the nutrients that they need. Feeding these alternative foods is the equivalent of feeding a child nothing but candy bars!
If you would like further information, please feel free to reach out and I can provide you with relevant articles and information.
Riley Reynolds, 360-466-3805, Ext. 4
