In the spring, it is not unusual to see young wildlife that appear to be alone.
Before you attempt to help – STOP and remember that it is best to leave wildlife where they are found, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division (WRD).
“Taking wildlife out of their natural environment and bringing them into your home often takes away the animal’s ability to then survive in the wild, where they belong,” explains Kaitlin Goode, wildlife biologist and program manager of the Georgia WRD Urban Wildlife Program. “In most instances, there is an adult animal a short distance away – even though you may not be able to see it. Adult animals, such as deer, spend most of the day away from their young to reduce the risk of a predator finding the young animal.”
The best thing people can do when they see young wildlife is to leave it exactly as they found it for at least 24 hours. If the animal is still there after this wait time, reach out to a local WRD office for guidance (GeorgiaWildlife.com/about/contact).
Wildlife, especially young animals, demand a great deal of care and have specific nutritional requirements. If they are not cared for properly, they will not be releasable or retain the ability to survive on their own. Persons not licensed and trained in wildlife rehabilitation should not attempt to care for wildlife. In fact, Georgia law prohibits the possession of most wildlife without a permit.
For more information, visit GeorgiaWildlife.com/living-with-wildlife.
