Kentucky Fish and Wildlife asks for people to keep wildlife wild

HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) – Officials with the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources (KDFWR) say spring brings with it a surge in newborn wildlife across Kentucky, along with the potential for well-meaning people to try to “rescue” the baby animals.

The KDFWR urges the public to leave young wildlife undisturbed, even when they appear to be alone. The KDFWR reminds property owners to watch for vulnerable wildlife when working on their properties.

“Every year, well-meaning people often step in to ‘rescue’ a baby wild animal that is alone and appears to be abandoned, not realizing that the animal’s mother is usually nearby,” said Dr. Christine Casey, wildlife veterinarian with Kentucky Fish and Wildlife. “Leaving young wildlife alone maximizes their likelihood of survival.”

Officials say depending on the species, wildlife parents may leave their nest or young for extended periods while hunting or foraging for food. The parents do this to also help keep predators away. Sometimes this occurs in developed areas, where wildlife parents have learned their offspring will generally be safe. In nearly all cases, a parent remains out of sight nearby and returns as needed to feed and care for its young.

The KDFWR says people can help wild animals thrive by:

• Observing them from afar.
• Keeping children and pets away from them to avoid injury or creating a scent trail that may attract a predator.
• Checking a property or site for the presence of young animals before mowing or commencing outdoor projects.

According to the KDFWR, the potential for spread of disease from wildlife to people is another reason to keep a safe distance from young wild animals this spring. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 90% of reported cases of rabies in animals occur in wildlife. If a person is bitten by a wild animal, they should immediately contact either their healthcare provider or their county public health department for guidance.

Officials say only state-permitted wildlife rehabilitators may care for orphaned or injured wildlife in Kentucky. Kentucky Fish and Wildlife does not accept orphaned or injured animals.

The wildlife rehab organizations in our portion of western Kentucky are:

• Daviess County
  • FAT BOTTOMED SQUIRRELS – Takes in mammals – 270-570-0194
• Muhlenberg County
  • West KY Wildlife – Takes in Mammals, Reptiles, Amphibians – 2705431345
  • Wild-Side Rehab Of WKY – Takes in Mammals, Opossums – 812-319-3912

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