May 23, 1996
(Forest Resources and Agrifoods)

A word of caution about apparently "abandoned" young wild animals

As the season of camping, fishing and other outdoor pursuits kicks off, Beaton Tulk, minister responsible for wildlife, would like to remind people that this is also the season when people will encounter wildlife with their newborn young, or young animals on their own.

Each year, during this time, the Wildlife Division receives many calls reporting lost or abandoned young wild animals. "Don't immediately assume that the newborn animal is abandoned," cautions the minister. "Often, adult animals will leave their young for extended periods of time, and may be reluctant to return to the area while people are present."

Although many well intentioned people feel the need to intervene and help an animal, this contact may do more harm than good. "We recommend that if you encounter any wildlife that you think may be orphaned or abandoned," said the minister. "Leave the area immediately and report the incident to your nearest Wildlife Division office or police detachment."

The Provincial Wildlife Rehabilitation Program is based at Salmonier Nature Park which is an environmental education and wildlife research facility operated by the Wildlife Division. The park becomes home to lost and abandoned animals taken in by the public. Park staff will attempt to re-introduce animals back to the wild, but unfortunately, most young animals raised in captivity cannot survive on their own. Park staff will also try to identify another accredited zoological park willing to accept the animal for display of educational purposes, however, for most common species, it is difficult to find a home, and if the animal cannot be maintained it must be euthanised.

     Contact:

     Mac Pitcher, Animal Curator        Anna Buffinga
     Salmonier Nature Park              Forest Resources and Agrifoods
     Holyrood (709) 729-6974            (709) 729-3750