Warm winter temperatures affecting local wildlife in Saskatoon

The topic of various species being affected by the warm winter conditions in urban areas has been the talk with some Saskatchewanians following a recent coyote sighting at Costco.

With little snow and warm winter temperatures in Saskatchewan, these conditions have been on the radars of local experts and how there is an impact with local wildlife populations.

On the other hand, one local animal rescuer says some animals are thriving with these warm conditions.

“A lot of people send us photos when they see wildlife, they’re all very healthy,” said Bonnie Dell, the executive director at Wildlife Rehabilitation Society of Saskatchewan.

“I think the warm weather and the lack of snow is benefitting a lot of animals being able to still find good food.”

An animal expert at the University of Saskatchewan says this lack of snow has an effect on some of the local wildlife populations.

“Folks probably have seen things that they, you know, might not be used to seeing this time of year,” said Philip McLoughlin, biology professor.

“If you look at the province, we have … quite varied geography and species that might be from the south right up to the north. This is going to affect species in different places and different ways.”

Recently, a coyote has been spotted near Costco, in the south location, where it was seen making its rounds through the parking lot. However, this sighting isn’t new for Dell as she recalls their organization was called out to Costco in October.