Young wildlife don’t need rescuing
Some wildlife throughout New Mexico have become stressed and or displaced by drought conditions or most recently by wildfires.
While at first glance the animals may appear to be lost or abandoned, they usually do not need to be rescued. The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is asking people not to rescue animals such as deer fawns, elk calves, bear cubs, baby birds, or others that may appear to be lost, injured or abandoned.
Most often, the wild mothers hide their babies while they forage or drink. Usually, mothers are closer than you think.
Removing young wildlife can drastically decrease their chances of survival. It becomes very difficult to return wild animals to their natural habitats once they have been in close contact with humans.
“It’s never a good occasion to pick up wildlife that appears to be lost or abandoned,” says Chris Ortega, Las Cruces District wildlife supervisor. “Mothers are never far away from their young and most likely left them alone for protection.”
If animals appear to be injured or a safety threat, people should call a local conservation officer or area office. Reports can be made at the department’s office in Santa Fe, 476-8000.
For more information, visit wildlife.state.nm.us.
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