Think twice before being ‘nice’

Think twice before being ‘nice’


Nothing is more endearing than a young wild animal. But if you see one alone, fight your instinct to ‘rescue’ it.

This summer, a bison calf was picked up by tourists at Yellowstone National Park who thought they were helping an abandoned animal. But when the healthy calf was brought back to its herd and then shunned, it had to be put down.

Similarly, baby birds, bunnies or fawns that seem abandoned have likely been left by their parents only temporarily. If you take one out of its environment — even if you bring it back — you’ve likely destroyed its chances of being accepted by and learning from its parent.

If you come across an apparently healthy wild animal, the best policy is almost always to let Mother Nature remain in charge. If in doubt, a call to your local wildlife rehabilitation facility should clarify the best course of action. Leaving healthy animals alone, no matter how cute, may be the most caring thing you can do.

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