Next on the suspect list: the river otters. These slippery troublemakers are always stirring things up. They’ve clashed with the island dogs before, and their chaotic ways make them perfect culprits for a juicy orchard crime. River otters are spirited residents of the Gulf Islands, often seen darting along rocky shores or venturing inland through forest paths and wetlands. But don’t be fooled by their curious charm—these mischief-makers are known to leave behind stinky surprises on decks and boats, the kind of mess dogs can’t resist rolling in!
I HAD to include deer mice: natural-born thieves of the night. Small, sneaky, and endlessly hungry, they slip through shadows to steal snacks and stash them away. With nimble paws and twitching noses, they’d think nothing of raiding an orchard under the cover of darkness. Deer Mice may be small, but they’re busy little island dwellers, scurrying through fields, forests, and even the occasional house. They’re clever and quick, often slipping in unnoticed to snack on crumbs. Though tiny, they can cause big trouble—chewing through anything from food bags to wires—and they’ve been known to drive both humans and hounds into a frenzy!
The fallow deer are perhaps the island’s most controversial residents — and there was no way they’d escape suspicion. Known for nibbling through gardens and orchards alike, these big grazers can cause big trouble. Fallow deer might look like something out of a fairytale, with their dappled coats and graceful antlers, but their story on Sidney Island is a complicated one. Originally introduced years ago, they’ve flourished in the island’s quiet forests and open meadows—perhaps a little too well. With few predators and plenty to nibble, they’ve multiplied quickly, putting pressure on native plants and young trees. Though quiet and shy at first glance, their impact on the island is loud and clear, and they’ve sparked important (and controversial) conversations about how to restore balance to this special place.
And then there are the orcas. The least suspicious suspects of all — after all, there’s no chance they could raid an orchard. Still, as the island’s most magnificent visitors, they’ve earned a cameo. Orcas, the majestic giants of the Salish Sea, sometimes glide past Sidney Island like shadows in the waves—powerful and breathtaking. With their striking black-and-white markings and towering dorsal fins, they turn heads whenever they appear. Though graceful, they’re fierce hunters, working together to chase down seals or fish with astonishing teamwork. Spotting one is pure magic!
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