Typically, the largest Capitol Hill fauna we encounter are the man-sized raccoons sometimes found hustling across a dark street. But there are larger creatures in our midst. Here’s a report — and pictures! — from neighbor Annie sent Monday night:
I’m writing to report a deer sighting in North Capitol Hill. I woke up this morning at 9am and as I walked into my kitchen and looked out the window into my backyard, I saw this beautiful deer eating one of my hostas! I could hardly believe my eyes! I watched her eat, then turn and drink from my birdbath sitting on the brick wall, then she leaped over the wall and ran down into the St. Mark’s Greenbelt behind my house. I grabbed my camera and took a couple of shots through the kitchen window, but they didn’t turn out great. I thought this might be something you would want to report to the community. In case anyone else sees the deer, Fish and Wildlife recommends that the public not approach the deer, just enjoy the sight from afar.
Shelley says she’s seen the greenbelt deer, too:
I saw a deer on Prospect and Boylston this morning- a few blocks from the west side of Volunteer park. I’ve lived here for six years and never seen one- has anyone else? It was big but still had it’s spots, so maybe it was a yearling? I’m always amazed at the city dwelling animals.
These Capitol Hill reports were preceded by a handful of ruminant sightings in the Central District earlier this summer.
With the push toward more and more urban farming, can urban game hunting be far behind?
Rode the Burke-Gilman trail to Bothell and back yesterday.
On the trail we encountered a specimen of what looked (from its darkish color and seed-filled texture) pretty much like the bear poop you often see in the mountains.
Deer in the urban scape – wow.
It is nice seeing wildlife in the city. Now watch your plants. I lived on Vashon Island, and those damned varmints would eat everything in site. And I specifically purchased ‘deer proof’ plants. Of course on Vashon, I’d have herds of deers, not one or two.
Just be forewarned, and when driving at night everybody, be cautious.
Newly minted Urban Farmers vs. Hill Deer Herd, Bambi, Mother and Dad
Yes, the deer was in my courtyard at 8am, Monday, Sept. 6, 2010, just prior to heading north along Summit Ave East. I have video of the deer in our driveway and then along Summit Ave. East. and turning right onto E. Prospect.
Amazing seeing a deer here!