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The Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment has been receiving numerous calls from the public regarding abandoned wildlife, including baby ducks, goslings, song birds and fawns.

While it may appear that a young wild animal has been abandoned, it is more likely that the parent is out searching for food, or that people have temporarily frightened the parent away. Unless the parent is found dead near the young animal, the adult typically returns as soon as people leave.

Although this can be difficult, it is best to leave them where they are found.

If a young bird has fallen out of the nest, return it to the nest or leave it as-is, as baby birds often fall out when first learning to fly.

Young geese or ducks can be released at the nearest body of water that ducks and geese are using to raise their young.

It is recommended to avoid young raccoons and skunks as these are noted carriers of rabies in Saskatchewan.

Rescuing a wild animal can often do more harm than good; animals raised by humans have a reduced ability to find food in the wild and may not be afraid of predators. The Ministry of Environment does not issue permits to allow people to keep animals that are taken from the wild. People who do so could face a penalty. Only licensed zoos are allowed to permanently keep wildlife in captivity.

If you are concerned about a young animal or bird that appears to be on its own, contact your local conservation officer for assistance. If it is after-hours, call our toll-free Turn-In-Poacher (TIPS) hotline at 1-800-667-7561, 24 hours a day or #5555 for SaskTel cell phone subscribers.