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Wild Aware Day at Hogle Zoo

Posted at 2:07 PM, Jun 06, 2016
and last updated 2016-06-07 16:30:07-04

The goal of the Wild Aware Utah program is to create awareness throughout Utah that will foster new attitudes towards wildlife and motivate behavior changes in people, resulting in minimizing conflicts with wildlife.

What: Wild Aware Day

When: June 18th 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Why: Hogle Zoo, and its outreach program Wild Aware Utah, are teaming up with various local and national wildlife groups and agencies, to help the public learn about predators and other wildlife - especially those found in Utah and the surrounding areas. Meet Zoo keepers and learn what you can do if you encounter animals in the wild, or right in your neighborhood. Stop by the display of a "bad" campsite and a "bear aware" campsite. Also, check out some of our Hogle Zoo animals as they interact with special enrichment items.

HIKING SAFETY TIPS:
Be alert at dawn and dusk when wildlife is most active.
• Never approach, feed, or try to touch wildlife.
• Always jog, hike or bike with a companion.
• Stay on designated trails. Wildlife usually stays clear of areas where humans frequent.
• Make noise to alert wildlife of your presence.
• Refrain from wearing headphones, which can block out the sounds of nearby wildlife.
• Keep kids in the center of the group.
• Do not leave litter on the trail.
• Carry bear spray and know how to use it properly.
• Keep dogs leashed and do not let dogs 'play' with wildlife. It is against Utah law to allow dogs to harass wildlife.
• Stay clear of animal carcasses near trails. They could be kills that are being guarded.
• Avoid placing yourself between a mother and her offspring. Give wildlife a lot of space.