Oregon DFW reminds people to leave young animals alone in wild

The department said picking up or taking in an animal could negatively impact its chances of survival.

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife has a message for anyone who wants to save a young wild animal seen alone: don’t.

ODFW says wildlife experts and authorities see an influx of calls about “abandoned” baby animals around this same time every year. Earlier in May, officials told Oregonians they shouldn’t rescue animals from the wild even if they appear orphaned.

The department said picking up or taking in the animal could negatively impact its chances of survival.

“Many wildlife species will leave their young while they forage for food,” ODFW explained. “When people remove them from the wild, young animals miss the chance to learn where to seek cover, what to eat and how to escape from predators and other dangers. The time young animals spend with their parents and in their natural environment are crucial for the development of survival skills long term.”

In some cases, returning an animal to its habitat can be difficult even after they’re treated by wildlife rehabilitators.

ODFW said removed animals are often euthanized because they don’t have the survival skills to return to the wild — and because of the limited space in wildlife sanctuaries and zoos. And according to officials, some animals become dangerous and pose a threat to humans as they grow into adults.

In addition to survival concerns for wildlife, the agency reported that taking in an animal could lead to trouble for humans.

The state prohibits people from removing animals from their natural habitat or holding them in captivity. Anyone who violates this law could receive a warning or citation from Oregon State Police.

The maximum penalty for the crime, which is a Class A Misdemeanor, is a one-year jail sentence and $6,250 fine.

However, Oregonians are encouraged to ask ODFW — or other wildlife experts — for advice if they notice a young animal is injured or their parent is deceased.