Baby wildlife might seem abandoned, but just leave it alone, says PA Game Commission

Late spring is prime birthing time for a lot of wildlife. This isn’t by coincidence. Newborns arrive in the springtime when food is more plentiful in Pennsylvania. But while a newborn fawn or rabbit may look adorable and cuddly, state officials say it’s crucial that young wildlife be left alone. Not only is it vital for the animal, it’s also the law.

“The first and best piece of advice is to leave it alone,” Game Commission communications director Travis Lau said. “This is something we encounter every year. Always leave wildlife in the wild.”

Don't get human scent on newborn animals

It’s illegal to take or possess wildlife. Under state law, a person can be fined up to $1,500 per animal.

Even if you want to get close or pet a newborn animal, such as a fawn, Lau said that no good can come of it.

“There would be no legitimate purpose in having direct contact with an animal, even for the sake of just petting it,” he said. “You’re only going to do that animal harm, regardless of circumstances. That interaction could be enough to drive the mother off from a fawn.”

By holding or touching an animal, you are also putting your own scent on it, potentially raising the odds of a predator tracking it down.

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Deer fawns

It’s common for people to assume that newborn deer or elk have been abandoned because they are routinely spotted alone. However, this is an approach by the adult female to keep her young safe.

“There can be a perception that fawns are abandoned or sick. But this is actually a strategy of whitetail deer. A doe will leave the fawn by itself to protect it. Fawns give off less scent than an adult deer, so predators could be drawn in by the adult scent and then prey on the fawn if the two are together. By maintaining some distance, it’s less likely the predator can pick up its scent.”

Cottontail rabbits

Half of the cottontail rabbit litters are born in late spring. Rabbits will normally make nests in a cup-shaped compression, lined with items such as grass and fur. If you come across a rabbit nest, it’s important to leave it alone, say Game Commission officials.

If you spot a small rabbit in the nest with its ears up and its body is covered with fluffy hair, it’s old enough to be on its own. Normally, rabbits can be on their own about 16 days after birth.

Birds and fallen nests

Nestlings are born partially feathered and with their eyes closed. If you come across a nestling that has fallen from its nest and its mouth and eyes are open, you can attempt to return it to its nest.

If its eyes are closed, you can contact the Game Commission or a wildlife rehabilitator.

Injured wildlife

If an animal is clearly injured, Lau said you can take the animal to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, but call ahead to make sure the facility has the resources to help.

To find a licensed rehabilitator near you, visit the Pennsylvania Association of Wildlife Rehabilitators website.