
They recently posted this - great information for everyone as I know I'm always indecisive whether I should help a baby animal or leave it be - here's some of their expect advice:
As we anxiously await the first signs of spring, Green Chimneys Wildlife Expert Paul Kupchok is anticipating scores of phone calls to our wildlife rehabilitation center. “Ten years ago, the calls were predominantly about baby birds, but these days, with the help of more housing developments, an assortment of species are growing accustomed to living among us,” says Mr. Kupchok. “And with more species living, scavenging and giving birth in our backyards, it’s all the more likely that you will encounter infant critters this season.” The overall rule of thumb is: If you love them, leave them alone.
Here’s a list of species in order of popularity, and key reasons why leaving them alone is the best course of action:
1) Fawns The top subject of calls in 2014 were regarding baby deer, which are commonly seen in the suburbs these days. If you spot a fawn lying in your backyard, chances are good the mother is hidden nearby keeping close watch. Baby deer are actually born without any scent and are capable of lying completely still, which, along with their white spots, helps them remain undetected by predators including coyotes. Mothers and babies will get together at night or when there is no sign of people around so that the babies can suckle. Do not kidnap them.
2) Raccoon cubs Raccoons can be carriers of infectious diseases, also known as zoonotic diseases, that can be passed to humans. For that reason, never handle a raccoon. If there is a raccoon you’re concerned about, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or your state department of environmental conservation. In New York, call 518.402.8883.
3) Fox pups People often accidentally uncover fox dens while working in their backyard. Pup parents leave their young for long periods of time to hunt food. If you discover a set of baby foxes in your yard, and they appear active and healthy, re-cover them and leave them be.
4) Baby birds As the seasons and weather change, it’s common for a baby bird to leave a nest too soon or for a nest to be blown out of a tree. In both cases, place them in the nearest tree or bush. Contrary to popular belief, most mother birds don’t possess a sense of smell and will not disown her babies because of a foreign scent like that of the human touch.
Learn what to do when you've found an injured animal >
or contact the wildlife rehabilitation center via 845.279.2995 x304.
Let me finish by adding that we have taken over the land of many of these animals. We need to find a way to live among them both peacefully and respectfully.
Email | Print