Animal Dangers in Denver and the Surrounding Area

For many, it is what a dream vacation is all about. Hiking in the cool mountain air, feeling the breeze or taking a drink from a spring-fed mountain creek is something few experience. It is a good way to see some of the wildlife up close. Still, sometimes the wildlife can get a little too close. Though wild animal attacks anywhere in the United States are rare, and more domesticated dogs kill people than any wild animal each year, there are risks associated with hiking and other outdoor activities in the Rocky Mountains. Even in the Denver area, wild animals can be encountered in some areas.

The further one moves away from the city center, the more likely there are to be dangerous animals nearby. For example, in the town of Idledale, a couple was startled Aug. 4, 2006, when a cougar wandered into their bedroom, according to the Rocky Mountain News. The cougar entered through a door that was slightly open and killed one of the couple's dogs. Idledale is just outside the beltway, approximately 15 miles from Denver.

Cougars are not the only bold carnivores in the Denver area. Bears can also make quite a nuisance of themselves. In fact, the Denver Post reported that bears are becoming a larger problem throughout the state as they have shown a phenomenal ability to adapt to human environments, often attracted to urban areas due to improper disposal of waste.

Animal dangers do not need to come from the largest animals. Ticks, which are prevalent in many areas of the state, including Denver, can also carry a few powerful diseases. Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Colorado Tick Fever are among the most feared of parasite-delivered illnesses, according to The Daily Camera. If left untreated, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever can become life-threatening. Colorado Tick Fever is generally not as serious as Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and most make a full recovery.

In addition to ticks, a number of snake species also call Denver home. While very few are poisonous, according to AA Animal Control, the most dangerous in the area is probably the rattlesnake. Fortunately, rattlesnakes are not very aggressive toward humans. However, if you hear the telltale rattle, you should make sure to cut a wide path around the snake.

So whether you are in Denver to participate in the upcoming Democratic National Convention, or take a hike through the surrounding mountains, keep in mind that the natural beauty of the area is shared with a number of different animals, some of which can be extremely dangerous. Understanding those dangers is the biggest key to avoiding them.

Sources:

AA Animal Control, "Denver Wildlife." www.aaaanimalcontrol.com

Bill Scanton, "Mountain lion sneaks into house, grabs couple's dog." Rocky Mountain News.

Justin George, "Hiking Season Brings Danger of Tick Diseases." The Daily Camera.

Steve Lipsher, "Bad-bear surge stirs unease." Denver Post.