There’s not a person in Alberta who didn’t shed a tear when Bambi’s mother died. Let’s face it, deer with their literal doe-eyes have been part of the area long before Okotoks became incorporated back in the early 20th century. They are adorable. They are — and should remain — part of the Foothills. However, things start to change when Bambi’s mom fights back. The aggressive nature of a deer towards a 14-year-old girl and her dog near the recreation centre is alarming, and a video of the attack was shown to Okotoks council on June 25. Alarming, especially since there is no indication the deer was provoked. Warnings of aggressive deer have popped up on pathways in Okotoks from time-to-time. Something has to be done by the Town of Okotoks. It may mean greater educating the public — feeding the deer is akin to feeding bears — it should never be done. Education includes ensuring the public gives deer the proper respect they deserve. Ultimately, it may mean some sort of cull, which hopefully could be done without “harvesting” the animals. However, the video shown to council indicates the ever-so-cute deer can be a public problem.
