Every year, young wildlife are picked up by people with good intentions who believe the animals have been abandoned, according to the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. Instead of leaving young wildlife where they were found, the animals end up captive, away from their environment, and subject to disease, improper feeding and even death. The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources advises people to leave young wildlife alone.

One fact that needs to be stressed is that although young wildlife look cute because of size and appearance, they should always be treated as a wild animal. Young wild animals will exhibit unpredictable behavior when confronted with human contact. This behavior can sometimes have disastrous consequences both to humans and the animal. Young wildlife also carry diseases that are not easily recognized by people who pick up these animals. If you see an animal that acts strangely or unnatural, do not handle it. Report the animal to a wildlife biologist or conservation officer, stating the type of animal, the action you have taken and where the animal is located.

Many people come across young wildlife ranging from birds fallen from nests to young fawns lying hidden in a field. Just because you see young wildlife in the same place for several hours or even longer, does not mean they have been abandoned by the parent. There could be any number of reasons why the animal is where it is found. Remember, adult wildlife will not abandon their young, and, except in extreme circumstances, will always return to an area where its young were left.

If by chance you find a young animal or other wildlife that you feel has been abandoned or injured, do not try to move it, except for a short distance away from imminent danger such as vehicles or dogs. Then, leave it alone. If the animal is still there after 24 hrs, call a DNR conservation officer or wildlife biologist.