OKOTOKS: A deer wandering around Okotoks with Christmas lights tangled in its antlers has made it big on the small screen.
The Late Show with Stephen Colbert featured it in his Meanwhile segment recently. The clips were shared to YouTube on Dec. 4 and in the Okotoks Community News Facebook page.
"Oh, boy," Colbert jokes. "This always happens at Santa's Christmas party."
The Western Wheel first reported on the deer on Nov. 27, but sightings of the decorated deer wandering town were reported to Fish and Wildlife as of Nov. 3, according to communications advisor Ina Lucila.
"At this time of year, Christmas lights wrapped around trees can also get stuck in deer's antlers," Lucila said. "We encourage any lights be placed high up and out of reach."
The provincial agency said to prevent situations like this, residents should be aware things on their property can affect wildlife.
As for the decorated deer, officers would have to restrain the deer or potentially use tranquilizers to remove the wire, "which would cause unnecessary physical and mental stress."
Lucila said officers will continue to monitor the situation and take extra steps if necessary for public safety or the deer's well-being.
"Members of the public are encouraged not to approach the deer as this may cause it stress and it may react defensively to protect itself," Lucila said.
If wildlife is observed in distress, the public is urged to contact the 24-hour Report a Poacher line at 1-800-642-3800.