Spring wildlife tips help families enjoy Folsom Lake safely, responsibly

With spring in full swing and wildlife more active across Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, park officials are reminding families a few simple habits can make outdoor adventures safer and more enjoyable for kids and animals alike. The most important rule is to never feed wild animals — including geese — no matter how tempting it may be for young visitors. Animals that accept food from humans can develop serious nutritional problems and lose their natural wariness around people, creating potentially dangerous encounters for families on the trails. Parents are also encouraged to remind children to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and keep voices low near nesting areas. Loud noises and crowding can stress animals enough to cause them to abandon their nests, disrupting the very natural moments kids come to see. Dogs must remain on leash and on designated trails at all times, as off-leash pets can disturb nesting sites, encounter aggressive animals or pick up ticks and poison oak that can then transfer to their owners. Families can also set a great example for young nature lovers by packing out all food and trash, admiring wildflowers without picking them and avoiding damage to trees and plants. Small scrapes and breaks on larger plants can compound over time, leaving them vulnerable to pests and drought. Park staff ask that visitors report irresponsible behavior immediately. As rangers often remind guests, the wildlife at Folsom Lake are year-round residents — and the people passing through are simply their visitors.