6 Wild Animals Coloradans Can Be Fined for Feeding

An elk steps out of the aspens beside a mountain road, and your snack bag is right there on the seat.

Many Coloradans have felt that pull to share food.

But these are the wild animals you can be fined for feeding, and what the rules say about each.

Note: This is general information, not legal advice. Wildlife rules, fines and local ordinances are subject to change.

1. Black Bears

In 2026, Colorado Gov. Jared Polis signed HB26-1342, a law aimed at people who knowingly lure bears.

It changed the required mental state in the state’s bear-luring statute from “intentionally” to “knowingly,” so prosecutors no longer have to prove intent.

Officers can also issue a violation to a first-time offender right away instead of a warning.

The Durango Telegraph reported that a first offense can cost you up to $200.

The Durango Telegraph reported that a second offense can mean up to $1,000 and a misdemeanor charge.

CPW’s release says that by a third offense the ceiling reaches $5,000, up from $2,000 before the change.

2. Mountain Goats

Mountain goats are on the list of animals that Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) says you can’t feed on purpose.

The agency lists a $100 fine for violators.

So feeding a mountain goat on purpose breaks the rule on CPW’s list, whether the animal looks hungry or friendly.

Fox News reported in 2019 that goats on Mount Evans were seen licking vehicles and putting their heads into open car windows.

3. Deer

Denver7 reported that wildlife officers filed charges against an Evergreen woman who filmed herself luring deer into her home to feed them.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife says intentionally feeding deer is illegal and that feeding prompts deer to crowd together in small areas, where dogs are more likely to chase them.

The Pagosa Sun reported that a town may add a fine when feeding breaks a local ordinance.

The Pagosa Sun also reported that managers suggest fencing or commercial sprays if deer keep eating your garden.

4. Elk

Cow elk with calves can become aggressive to defend their young, Colorado Parks and Wildlife warns.

The agency lists elk among the animals you can’t feed on purpose. CPW’s page lists a $100 fine for violators.

The same page describes chronic wasting disease as an always-fatal neurological disease that affects deer, elk and moose. Its prions are in the saliva, feces and carcasses of infected animals.

No treatment or vaccine exists.

5. Bighorn Sheep

Bighorn sheep appear on the state wildlife agency’s list of animals you can’t feed on purpose. CPW’s page lists a $100 fine for violators.

The same list means feeding a bighorn on purpose is against the rules, even from a car window.

Colorado Outdoors magazine reported in 2019 that a CPW officer called salt a strong attractant for mountain goats and bighorn sheep.

The magazine said a CPW biologist added that the agency was concerned about the health of mountain goats and bighorns that come into contact with human and domestic waste.

6. Mountain Lions

Colorado Parks and Wildlife warned in a 2024 news release that if deer are in your yard, mountain lions will follow.

The release adds that birdseed will attract numerous small game and deer to a yard, which will in turn invite mountain lions.

The agency's feeding page also lists mountain lions among the animals you can't feed on purpose. CPW's page lists a $100 fine for violators. So a feeder set out for birds may end up inviting a lion, with deer in between.

When a Lion Loses Its Fear

In February 2024, wildlife officers captured and euthanized a mountain lion in Silverthorne. CPW said the lion was believed to be involved in two goat incidents and one incident involving a dog.