DEC cautions against disturbing fawns and other young wildlife by urging New Yorkers, “If You Care, Leave Them There.”
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos recently reminded New Yorkers to appreciate wildlife from a safe distance and resist the urge to touch or pick up newborn fawns and other young wildlife. Human contact with wildlife can carry unintended consequences detrimental to the animals people intend to help.
“At this time of year, New Yorkers may encounter young or newborn wild animals in their yards and mistakenly think they need help to survive,” Commissioner Seggos said. “While a baby rabbit or a recently fledged bird might appear abandoned, a parent is likely nearby, trying to remain out of view. Please do not touch a wild baby animal; instead, enjoy encounters with wildlife from a distance. Remember-if you care, leave it there.”
DEC advises during spring months, animal…