Over the next several weeks, many species of wildlife in Wyoming will be bearing young. If you happen to find newborn wildlife, do not panic. This is nature at work. The mother is likely nearby and will return once you are gone. Leave wildlife where you find it, and don’t pick it up. Moving newborn wildlife  decreases their chance of survival; it’s important the mother can find their young.

Wildlife mothers often leave their young alone and hidden while they travel to find food. Newborn wildlife are safe, though. Adaptations like camouflaged fur or feathers and staying motionless help keep newborn safe from predators. If you have reason to believe a wild animal is injured or truly abandoned, call your local game warden, wildlife biologist or regional office. Picking it up is illegal and most species, such as deer and antelope, cannot legally be possessed in Wyoming. Do not try to pick it up or care for it on your own.