Abandoned Baby Animals

— Written By and last updated by Nancy Power
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babybirds

by Tiffanee Boone

Many concerned citizens call our Extension office around this time of year because they have found an abandoned baby animal in the wild. They want to know if they can keep it and what to feed it. In most cases, the best answer is to leave the animal where you found it. Most times a baby animal is not lost or abandoned, but placed there by the parent or parents to keep it hidden from predators while they are not far off feeding or collecting food for the baby. A good example of this is a baby bird that is learning to fly, but has not quite learned yet. They may not be fully feathered yet, and that is OK. The bird’s parents will keep watch on the fledgling, fending off any predators and providing food until it has mastered the art of flying. The parents know the best way to provide for their offspring’s survival and what is appropriate for that species. This ensures that they retain their natural wild behaviors.

You may find a fawn lying in the tall grass by itself. This does not mean it has been abandoned. Its parent may have just lured predators away or is simply grazing nearby. You can be assured that the doe is not far away and is keeping a good eye on the fawn. If you come across a spotted fawn, it is best to just leave the area quietly.

The more serious cases of animals seemingly being abandoned are due to injury. In some of these cases, a permitted rehabilitator that is trained and experienced in caring for the animal may be the best solution. You can view a list of permitted rehabilitators at: http://www.ncwildlife.org/InjuredWildlife.aspx You should always respect wildlife and leave animals alone. Nature has its own plan to balance itself out. Even though baby animals are cute and cuddly, they cannot be kept in your house or your yard. The reason is that it is not legal. Individuals are not permitted to possess or raise any species of wild animal in captivity.

You should never attempt to tame wildlife. Wildlife may carry diseases and parasites that humans are at risk of contracting. Diseases such as rabies, Lyme disease, and tuberculosis are very common in wildlife. Young animals could also become dependent on humans and if released back into the wild, normally die because they are not able to find food or water by themselves.

Most people have the very best intentions to try to help when they find wild animals. However, more harm may be created for the animal and also rescuer. Enjoy wildlife, but leave wild animals in their natural habitat. That is the best way you can help them.

If you need help with wildlife issues or agricultural information, please call our N.C. Cooperative Extension Richmond County office at 910-997-8255.

Written By

Tiffanee Boone, N.C. Cooperative ExtensionTiffanee BooneExtension Agent, Agriculture - Horticulture & Local Foods Call Tiffanee Email Tiffanee N.C. Cooperative Extension, Pender County Center
Updated on Jan 13, 2021
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