Video of man feeding deer in Banff sparks probe

A Calgary man who posted a video on social media of himself drinking beer and feeding a deer in Banff has triggered a Parks Canada investigation.

Kris Melhus posted a video on his Facebook page Feb. 15 that shows a mule deer eating food out of his hand in Banff, while he drinks a can of beer.

Melhus then chases the deer away and the footage includes the statement: “No wildlife were harmed while filming this video.”

The video is part of an online drinking game called neknominate, where a person films themselves quickly downing alcohol, and posts the video on the Internet. The person then nominates two friends to the same.

Parks Canada warden Joe Owchar said a member of the public reported the video to Banff National Park dispatch.

“Parks Canada wardens have interviewed the reporting person and collected evidence of the event. We have some leads and the investigation is progressing,” Owchar said in a statement.

“As Parks Canada wardens progress on this case, we will evaluate if we have sufficient evidence to lay charges under Canada National Parks Regulations.

“Potential charges are feeding wildlife, disturbing wildlife and/or unreasonable behaviour. Charges laid under the National Parks Act regulations in the province of Alberta require a mandatory court appearance. If the suspects are found guilty, a fine is determined by the judge.” The maximum fine is $25,000. Melhus could not be reached for comment. The video has since been removed from the website.

Bow Valley Wildsmart executive director Kim Titchener expressed concern that posting inappropriate behaviour toward wild animals online could create an attitude of disrespect for wildlife in a national park.

“I am glad to see Parks Canada is looking into this, and that they do look into videos that people post and pictures people post online, on Facebook and on other social media outlets because it is just so inappropriate,” Titchener said.

Owchar said reports of off-leash dogs chasing park wildlife have also been received recently.

Anyone who observes people feeding or harassing wildlife, dogs chasing wildlife or who has information on these incidents is encouraged to call Banff National Park dispatch office at 403-762-1470 or 1-888-WARDENS (927-3367).