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More and more people throughout Colorado—and not just in rural areas—are keeping small livestock and Colorado Parks and Wildlife is asking individuals to take extra steps to protect their animals.

A recent incident near Paonia in which a bear killed 40 chickens provides a reminder that wildlife will aggressively seek sources of food. Not only bears, but mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes and raccoons also prey on livestock. Small domestic animals such as chickens, goats, miniature horses, sheep and pets are particularly vulnerable. 

Here are some tips to keep small livestock safe:

• A simple fence will not keep wildlife out of an area where small animals are kept. Animals should be taken into a building at night.
• If a pen is used, the top should also be covered. Chicken coops must be well secured—a bear can easily tear off a wooden door.
• Dogs that bark can provide additional deterrents.
• Livestock owners should also keep pens and barns clean because most wildlife has a powerful sense of smell. Predators are opportunists and have good memories—if they find sources of food at one residence or farm, they'll go looking for more at similar places.
• Owners should also look around their properties to identify other items that might attract wildlife, such as pet food, compost piles, garbage or pets. For example, if deer are finding easy sources of food and gathering in small groups, that is likely to attract a mountain lion.
• Besides secure enclosures, livestock owners can also consider enclosing an area with an electric fence.

Small livestock owners who want to learn more about protecting their animals can call their local Colorado Parks and Wildlife office and speak to a district wildlife manager. Wildlife managers will visit properties to provide information on livestock enclosures. Fencing materials are also available at no charge for some agricultural producers.
     
To learn more about living with wildlife, visit the Living with Wildlife page.

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While many people have seen the news that a section of the Arkansas River through the Royal Gorge is closed to whitewater rafting due to the Royal Gorge Fire, Colorado Parks and Wildlife is reminding residents that a majority of the river is experiencing great spring runoff rafting conditions. The only portion of the river closed is the stretch from the public landing at Spike Buck to the takeout in Canon City which is less than 17 miles.

Outdoor enthusiasts looking to beat the heat of the summer season can enjoy rafting, kayaking, fishing, camping and other outdoor recreation activities in the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA).  
 
Thanks to late spring snow storms, the the AHRA will have 10,000 acre-feet of water available this summer and will ensure the Upper Arkansas River good flows for rafting, kayaking and fishing.
 
White advises rafting enthusiasts planning a whitewater trip on the Arkansas to pick a trained and experienced guide. The Arkansas River Outfitters Association has information to help the public select a whitewater boating company. 
 
Visit the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area page for additional AHRA information.