Newborn wildlife may look vulnerable, but their best chance of survival is with the mothers
By Mimi Vanderhaven
If spring is in the air, you can expect to see the newest generation of baby animals making its adorable way into the world.
While there’s nothing more precious and awe-inspiring than a newborn fawn, chick or duckling, it’s always best to observe them from a distance rather than interact with them.
According to Tammy O’Neil, who is the wildlife care manager at Lake Metroparks Kevin P. Clinton Wildlife Center, a baby wild animal’s best chance for survival is with its mother.
“It is natural for young wildlife to be left alone,” she says. “Wild parents instinctively know what’s best to keep their young alive. If you find a nest or baby animal, the smartest thing to do to ensure its survival is leave it alone, unless it is injured, bleeding, emaciated, unresponsive, weak or obviously abandoned.”
This time of year, people discover a baby deer and assume the mother has abandoned it, but that’s rarely the case, she says. Babies are born nearly scentless as a protection against predators. The mother usually puts them in a safe place, then goes out for food. You might think she’s gone, but she’s probably nearby keeping a watchful eye
“The more time you spend near the area of a baby, the more likely it is that you will attract predators and put the baby in harm’s way,” she says.
What should you do if you find an animal that’s injured or orphaned? Call the Wildlife Center at 440-256-1404, option 2. An expert will talk you through the steps for transporting it to their care, or the care of another local rehabilitation center.
“Each year we offer first aid and rehabilitation to all sorts of backyard wildlife, like rabbits, squirrels and birds,” she adds.
The Kevin P. Clinton Wildlife Center accepts injured or orphaned animals by appointment only. Call the hotline to make an appointment or ask questions about a baby animal you may have found. Penitentiary Glen Reservation is located at 8668 Kirtland Chardon Road in Kirtland. Visit lakemetroparks.comfor more information.
