Flagstaff looking to institute ban on feeding wildlife

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — Wild animals are moving into populated areas in Flagstaff to get a free meal. Meanwhile, city council is looking to possibly put a stop to it by banning wildlife feeding.

Modeled after an ordinance in existence in Maricopa County, the City of Flagstaff is considering passing a similar ordinance. In Maricopa County, it is illegal to feed wildlife with the exception of tree squirrels and the use of bird feeders.

“It’s an appropriate response for a governmental entity,” said Jim Paxon with Arizona Game and Fish. “Now what we need to do is help folks to understand that wildlife subsist on their own, they will go where there is food and shelter. We don’t need to be supporting them within city limits.”

If the ordinance is passed, a resident could face misdemeanor charges and jail time.