Intentional feeding of wildlife such as deer, coyotes, raccoons, and waterfowl is discouraged in Elk Grove and can trigger nuisance abatement if it attracts pest animals or creates health risks. California law prohibits feeding big game and predators.
California Fish and Game Code section 251.1 and related regulations prohibit feeding of big game mammals (deer, elk), and CDFW policy strongly advises against feeding predators including coyotes, which can cause habituation leading to conflicts. Elk Grove residents living near the Cosumnes River Preserve, Laguna Creek, and the Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge see regular wildlife including coyotes, raccoons, opossums, wild turkeys, and waterfowl. Feeding these animals, intentionally or through unsecured pet food and trash, attracts pest species and violates nuisance provisions of the Elk Grove Municipal Code. Waterfowl feeding at ponds in Laguna West and Elk Grove Regional Park is discouraged through posted signage; bread and processed foods cause nutritional deficiencies and water quality issues. Bird feeders for songbirds are generally acceptable if maintained to exclude rats.
Nuisance abatement notices are typical. Continued violation can result in citations around 100 to 500 dollars. CDFW big game feeding citations carry higher penalties.
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