What to do if you come across baby wild animals

As spring arrives in Maine, the state’s wildlife comes alive with the birth of baby animals and birds. Keel Kemper, a regional biologist with the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, is inundated with calls from concerned citizens who have come across young wildlife and are unsure of what to do. Kemper’s advice is simple: „If you care, leave them there.“ This mantra emphasizes the importance of allowing nature to take its course and avoiding unnecessary interference with wild animals.

One of the most common sightings in Maine during the spring is fawns. These young deer are often left alone by their mothers for extended periods of time as the doe goes off to feed. Fawns are well-camouflaged and lack scent, making them difficult for predators to detect. It is crucial not to disturb a fawn unless there is clear evidence that it has been orphaned. In such cases, contacting a wildlife rehabilitator is the best course of action.

Raccoons are another species that often leave their young unattended while they forage for food. If you come across baby raccoons, it is best to observe from a distance and wait for the mother to return. In many cases, the mother raccoon will retrieve her young even after a disturbance, such as a fallen tree revealing a den. Patience and vigilance are key when encountering baby raccoons in the wild.

Squirrels, including red, gray, and flying squirrels, may also be seen without their mothers. If a baby squirrel has fallen from its nest, it is important to protect it from predators and wait for the mother to retrieve it. Taking a baby squirrel to a wildlife rehabilitator is not always advisable due to the risk of rabies transmission. Observing from a distance and allowing the mother squirrel to care for her young is often the best course of action.

Skunks, another rabies vector species, should not be disturbed if found without their mother. Keeping a safe distance and monitoring the young skunks for signs of distress is recommended. If the mother does not return, it is important to assess the young skunks‘ health and ability to care for themselves before considering intervention.

Fox kits, porcupines, and rabbits are also commonly encountered in Maine during the spring. Fox kits are often seen playing under the watchful eye of their parents, while baby porcupines are left alone by their mothers while they feed. Orphaned baby porcupines are a common occurrence due to human interference, such as trapping or shooting adult porcupines. Rabbits, on the other hand, are rarely seen as babies in the wild. If a nest of baby bunnies is discovered, it is best to avoid touching them and monitor for signs of the mother’s return.

In conclusion, encountering baby wildlife in Maine can be a magical experience, but it is essential to approach these situations with caution and respect for nature. By following the advice of experts like Keel Kemper and allowing wild animals to care for their young, we can help ensure the health and well-being of Maine’s wildlife population. Remember, if you care, leave them there.