Michigan Spring Wildlife Warning – Admire Baby Animals, But Leave Them Be

DNR urges Michiganders to keep baby wildlife wild by resisting the urge to intervene during spring nesting and birthing season.

Michigan Spring Wildlife Warning: Let Baby Animals Be

?Springtime in Michigan often feels like a live-action nature documentary, with baby birds, deer fawns, bunnies, and ducklings appearing across parks, backyards, and trails. But according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the best way to help these young animals is simple: leave them alone.

“Many wild animals hide their young for safety. These babies are not abandoned; they have been hidden by their mother until she returns,” said Rachel Lincoln, DNR Wildlife Communications Representative. **Removing baby animals from their habitat not only endangers their survival but is also illegal in most cases unless done by a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.**

Michigan Wildlife Officials Warn: Do Not ‘Rescue’ Baby Birds

In the spring, baby birds often fall from nests while learning to fly. Though it may appear they’ve been abandoned, their parents are usually nearby. If moved, the adult birds might not be able to locate and care for them again. Federal law also protects all bird nests, eggs, and birds themselves from being handled or disturbed without proper permits.

Two common Michigan birds — mallards and Canada geese — frequently build nests near people. Mallards often choose yards or gardens and should not be disturbed. Once the ducklings hatch, the mother will guide them to water.

Canada geese, known for their fierce parental instincts, build nests near human activity and may aggressively protect their young. If you must pass near a nest, the DNR recommends carrying an umbrella to open and close as a gentle deterrent.

White-Tailed Deer Fawns: Camouflaged and Meant to Be Alone

?One of the most misunderstood baby animals in Michigan is the white-tailed deer fawn. People often spot them curled up alone and assume they’re orphaned. But their stillness and lack of scent are natural defense mechanisms.

Mother deer, who often remain far from their fawns for hours, return only when it’s safe. If you see a fawn, don’t touch it — and leave quickly. Human scent can attract predators.

Leave Baby Bunnies Alone, Even If They Seem Abandoned

?Like deer, mother rabbits keep their distance from their nests during the day to protect their young from predators. It’s normal to see baby bunnies alone.? They are already well-equipped to survive in the wild. The biggest risk to them is human and pet interference.

Keep children, cats, and dogs away from known rabbit nests.?

The Best Help Is Distance: Enjoy Wildlife Responsibly

?While it’s tempting to “rescue” baby wildlife, well-intentioned interference can be harmful or even fatal.? The DNR encourages residents to enjoy observing from afar, using binoculars or cameras with zoom lenses.?

Additional ways to support Michigan’s spring wildlife include:

• Growing native plants that provide food and shelter for young animals.
• Avoiding pesticides, which harm both insects and the animals that feed on them.
• Teaching children to respect and protect local wildlife.?

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