Wildlife
The Northumberland Humane Society does not rehabilitate wildlife on the premises - we assist in the capture of injured wildlife when we are able (which is not always!) and will generally take in such animals, however we immediately transport them to either a local vet or to a wildlife center (the most available closest center being in Napanee).
By the time a baby cotton-tailed rabbit is about 5 inches long, with its eyes open and ears upright, it will be self sufficient and ready for release back to the wild. Many people find a nest of young cottontails and think they're abandoned. This is often not the case - a mother cottontail only feeds her young at night, so you will not find the mother near her nest during the day. Young cottontails leave the nest at a very young age. Consider these points before you disturb a nest of young wild rabbits! No one can care for a young animal like its mother, so be very sure any baby wildlife you come across IS actually abandoned! Call the shelter or a wildlife rehabilitator for advice. Also be advised; it is both illegal and unethical to keep wild animals as pets! Wildlife belongs in the wild!!
Moving wildlife out of your shed, attic, etc. during the winter...
Although mammals in Ontario create dens for the winter, many do not truly hibernate. Animals such as raccoons and squirrels prepare themselves by building up fat stores, which help them survive severe weather periods. During good weather they take the opportunity to exercise and search for food out of their dens. With the false believe that all mammals hibernate, people can become very confused when they see a raccoon in February!
Keep in mind that animals will have a much more difficult time finding a new home in the winter, so if you want to remove such an animal from your shed or attic, it would be best to wait until spring. If people can wait until spring or be extra patient when using deterrent techniques, the animals will have a much greater chance of survival.
Springtime
Most fawns are born in late May to early June. A doe (mother deer) may leave
her fawn for 4-6 hours between feedings, lying down or sleeping in a field or
ditch on the side of the road, so as not to attract predators. Many people
mistakenly believe these animals are orphaned if they are found alone. Rest
assured that if you find a lone fawn in this condition, the mother is probably nearby. Unless you are
certain the mother doe is deceased, leave the fawn alone. The same applies
to a baby moose.
If, however, the fawn is lying on his side, appears injured or dehydrated, or is wandering and crying incessantly, he may be orphaned.
Contact Ontario Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Network at 905-735-9556 or by email at info@owren-online.org.
Remember: a fawn found alone and quiet is okay.
