When Do Baby Animals Need Help? RIDEM Plans Online Workshop

SCITUATE — It's springtime, and that means many wild birds and animals are busy raising their young.

According to the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, sightings of deer fawns, fox kits, songbird chicks, bunnies, and baby squirrels are common in May and June. Sometimes such sightings generate concerned calls to the Division of Fish and Wildlife, especially if the young animals appear abandoned.

RIDEM says that young animals that appear to be in danger are usually fine, and just need to be left alone and given space. However, there are some instances where they do need help.

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To that end, RIDEM plans a virtual program on Thursday afternoon. Participants will learn about young wildlife species, and come away with the knowledge to determine when an intervention is necessary, and what the best course of action is.

DEM Wildlife Outreach personnel will be joined by staff from the Wildlife Rehabilitators Association of Rhode Island (WRARI) to share information and answer questions.

"We always appreciate public concern for our wildlife, especially vulnerable, young animals," said Mary Gannon, DEM Wildlife Outreach Coordinator. "However, sometimes folks can become overly concerned and get too close to little critters who really just need peace and quiet and to be left alone, and this can cause unnecessary stress to the animal."

She said she hopes the program will help Rhode Islanders understand when and how young animals need help.

To register for the online event, visit https://forms.gle/mu2EhCCxMoTjQWa68. The program will be held on May 6 from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

If an injured wild animal is found, people can always contact WRARI at 401-294-6363 for assistance. To report an animal that appears sick or is acting abnormally, contact DEM's Division of Law Enforcement at 401-222-3070.