4 Halloween decorations that can be deadly for wildlife

 Halloween is the perfect time to pull out the skeletons and pumpkins and decorate your front yard. But while your spooky decorations may be fun for people, they can be dangerous—or even deadly—for local wildlife.

To protect animals in your neighborhood, there are several Halloween decorations you should definitely avoid.

1) Fake spiderwebs

Fake spiderwebs are the most dangerous decoration for wild animals. Birds, bats, mammals, insects and even deer can become trapped in the synthetic fibers, which are nearly impossible for small animals to tear free from. The more they struggle, the more entrapped they become. This can lead to circulation being cut off, broken bones, strangulation, starvation and death. Since the strands can be very thin, it is easy for animals to not see the spiderwebs—until it is too late. While the spooky effect of fake spiderwebs is fun, they should be avoided at all costs.

2) Electrical cords, ropes or string

When cords, ropes, or strings suddenly appear in an animal’s habitat, animals are at high risk of becoming entangled. Much like the fake spiderwebs, animals can get tied up and trapped. Rope in particular affects white-tailed deer, as it can get wrapped around bucks’ antlers and faces. This becomes a big problem if it prohibits them from being able to eat. Electrical cords are also hazardous to animals, as they may try to chew on them, resulting in electrocution.

3) Painted or sealed pumpkins

Pumpkins don’t pose a threat to wildlife, but paint or chemicals on pumpkins can cause harm. Many animals like to eat pumpkins, but unnatural substances on a pumpkin can make wildlife ill. Instead of decorating with paint or lacquer, carve a jack-o-lantern and let the neighborhood creatures snack on it!

4. Foam gravestones

Foam decorations easily break down and lead to small pieces that animals may accidentally ingest. Eating materials like plastic or foam can lead to intestinal blockages, choking and other serious issues. If you are going to use yard decorations, look for solid materials like wood or hard plastic that won’t break apart into small pieces.

Animal-safe décor

The safest decorations for wildlife are natural items. Pumpkins and gourds make fun seasonal décor without posing risks for animals—and also provide a nice snack for squirrels, chipmunks, opossums and other small mammals! Consider going natural when selecting festive fall décor and help keep our native wildlife safe. If you use artificial materials, make sure they are sturdy, too large to ingest and don’t obstruct flight paths or high-traffic wildlife areas.