“Young wild animals are rarely abandoned or orphaned,” said Missouri Department of Conservation State Wildlife Veterinarian Sherri Russell. “The wildlife parent is afraid of people and will retreat when you approach.”
. . . most wild mothers do not abandon their young because of a human smell on them, and most young wild animals do not survive in captivity.
Source: Missouri Conservationist, May 2019, page 5. Link. “While people may have good intentions, the care and rehabilitation of wild animals requires special training, knowledge, facilities, care — and permits,” Russell said. “Wild animals, if they are to survive in captivity, often require highly specialized care.
Also see: Don’t adopt wildlife, Missouri Department of Conservation. Link.
INSIGHTS: Much of the information from the state of Missouri applies to most U.S. states. Now is the time of year to remind people to leave wildlife alone. Share this or your own state’s information on social media and in e-newsletters.