The BC Conservation Officer Service's poacher and polluter () hotline received more than 30,000 calls in 2022.
And while most were legitimate, some left conservation officers scratching their heads. Here is a look at some of the wackiest calls of the year:
Peacock Pop In
Caller advised a peacock has entered their home through an open door. There is no threat to their safety, and caller’s grandpa is not encouraging it to leave, due to weather. They will call back if it becomes an issue.
Snake shut out
Caller advised snakes are in her garden and she is concerned for them. She would like to set up an appointment to have them removed.
Transient tadpoles
Caller has a pond on their property that collects water from five lots and drains into a fish-bearing stream. There are no tadpoles this year, and they want to know what’s happened.
Rustle in the bushes
RCMP received a call from an individual who reports having seen a bush rustle and purring coming from the bush. Caller was concerned it was a cougar.
Dead shrew
Caller is reporting a dead shrew. Advised we are not concerned, but insisted he needed to make a report.
Backyard badger
Caller reporting a badger is making a den in her backyard. Not concerned about it, just thought we would like to know.
Statue attack
Caller said a bear attacked a statue that looked like a person, which is very concerning to them.
Mysterious fly-by
Caller reporting some kind of big, black and grey animals flew by their driveway. It was so fast, the caller was unable to identify it.
Oh deer
Deer concerns generated more than 5,000 calls last year. Here are a couple of honourable mentions:
- Caller states there are a couple of deer that have dug a hole in the yard and are lying in it. Caller assumes the deer are keeping warm but is wondering if she should help them.
- Caller is reporting seeing a deer on the side of the road. The deer is not injured and is mobile.
