Whidbey deer wearing metal band prompts Fish and Wildlife alert

A deer was observed on Whidbey Island with a metal band wrapped around its abdomen, prompting officials to ask residents to report sightings and monitor the animal’s condition. The sighting on Jan. 13 drew concern because man-made entanglements can tighten over time and injure wildlife.

Ralph Downes, an enforcement officer for the state Department of Fish and Wildlife, said residents should alert authorities if the animal appears to be struggling or injured. “That’s pretty common, especially on Whidbey,” Downes said, pointing to a similar situation near Freeland where a deer has been seen wearing what looks like a collar around its neck for years. “Anywhere you have large deer populations living close to people, you see some strange things.”

Entanglements from items left outdoors are a recurring problem in areas where households and deer share the landscape. Officials say animals are frequently found with objects caught around their necks, legs or feet; even ordinary yard tools and materials can become unintended traps. Those risks are particularly relevant on Whidbey, where suburban lots, open fields and forest edges sit near residential neighborhoods and roads.

No removal action had been taken as of Jan. 13. Downes said Fish and Wildlife would assess whether the band posed an immediate constriction risk. Should officials determine the deer is at risk, a coordinated response would be required to remove the band safely. That response could involve physically restraining the animal to cut away the metal or tranquilizing it so crews can work without endangering the animal or responders.

For residents, the immediate public-safety consideration is to avoid approaching the animal. Close contact can stress wildlife and create risk for people. Officials are asking community members to note the animal’s location, behavior and condition and contact Fish and Wildlife if the deer appears injured, trapped or increasingly constrained by the band.

The incident underscores the ongoing interface between people and wildlife on Whidbey Island and the routine hazards created by unsecured materials. Securing yard debris, tools and other potential hazards reduces the chance that curious or roaming animals become entangled.

The takeaway? Keep outdoor items stowed, watch for stressed wildlife, and report problems to Fish and Wildlife so trained crews can evaluate and, if necessary, safely intervene. Our two cents? Don’t try to help a trapped animal yourself—call the pros and give the deer space.