Game and Fish is reminding area residents to be aware that Halloween pumpkins and other fall decorations, such as gourds or squash, can attract wildlife when displayed outdoors. Officials recommend that jack-o-lanterns, uncarved pumpkins and cornucopias be displayed indoors to help prevent encounters with foraging wildlife. Urban wildlife specialist Darren Julian says pumpkins and other edible decorations are easy meals for wildlife and often attract javelina, coyotes, deer and even bears. He says habituating wildlife to human food sources can lead to property damage and potentially cause conflicts resulting in serious injuries to people or pets.
