Sparta mayor: Don’t feed deer
Sparta. Mayor Dave Smith reminded residents not feed deer, which increases their reproduction, can sicken and kill them. It also can cause them to loose fear of humans and spread parasites.
| 04 Oct 2022 | 02:17
A family of deer observe the play of golfers on the 3rd hole fairway at the 9 n Dine Golf Tournament at the Black Bear GC.
Sparta Mayor Dave Smith is reminding residents to not feed the deer after the town received multiple complaints.
Citing NJ Fish and Wildlife guidance, supplemental feeding increases their reproduction, and can sicken and kill the animals. It also increases hazards such as changing their behavior, losing fear of humans, spreading parasites, compromising the health of non-target species, and increasing traffic accidents.
Feeding deer also contributes to environmental damage including eating the landscaping of surrounding properties and natural environment.
The mayor will work with the town’s animal control officer to determine whether current ordinances include any penalties for feeding the deer.