15-05-2025
PA Game Commission reminds residents to leave young animals alone
(WJET/WFXP) — If you see young wild animals all alone, the Pennsylvania Game Commission asks that you please leave them alone for the safety of both yourself and the animal.
Young animals that appear to be alone usually are not. According to Matthew Schnupp, the Bureau of Wildlife Management Director for the Pennsylvania Game Commission, 'As well-intentioned as [people] are in trying to help these animals, the reality is that the mother is probably nearby and waiting for you to leave so she can return.'
Wild Stuff: Last Chance Lagoon, Pt. 2
Interacting with young wildlife can also disrupt the relationship between humans and wild animals. According to the PA Game Commission, a deer attacked two people whose neighbors had been taking care of it since it was a baby.
Young animals can also carry diseases, from something as simple as fleas to something as deadly as rabies.
If you think that a young animal actually does need help, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator through the Pennsylvania Association of Wildlife Rehabilitators.
You can also call the PA Game Commission at 1-833-PGC-WILD or 1-833-PGC-HUNT.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
