Environment DEC
From the July 2007 issue
New Yorkers Urged Not to Disturb Young Wildlife
New Yorkers are reminded to keep their distance from newborn fawns and other young wildlife during the warm weather months. Although they may seem as though they're abandoned, helpless and in need of assistance, it usually isn't true. Look -- but don't touch. It could do more harm than good.
Except for when a fawn is nursing, its mother often leaves it alone for long periods so as not to draw predators to the nesting site
Young animals and birds quickly venture into the world on shaky legs or fragile wings. While most learn about survival from one or both parents, it's normal for some to receive little or no parental care. Wild animal parents often stay away from their young when people are near. It's not unusual to see a young bird crouched in the yard or a young rabbit in the flower garden, both apparently motherless. Finding a fawn lying by itself also is fairly common. Potential peril facing these young animals is a natural part of survival in the wild. Young wildlife that learn well and are the most fit generally live longest.
If You Care, Leave Them There
Should you find a fawn or other young wild animal, the best thing to do is to leave it alone. Do not consider young wildlife as possible pets. This is illegal and bad for the animal. Furthermore, wild animals do not make good pets; they are not well suited for life in captivity and may carry diseases that can be transmitted to people. Resist the temptation to take them out of the wild.
Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitators
If you encounter a young wild animal that is obviously injured or orphaned, call a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for advice and help. Wildlife rehabilitators are volunteers licensed by DEC and are the only people legally allowed to receive and treat distressed wildlife. The goal of the rehabilitator is to release healthy animals back into the wild, where they belong. To locate a licensed wildlife rehabilitator in your area, call the nearest DEC regional wildlife office.
